On the recordJune 1, 2015
As we pass the bipartisan Girls Count Act of 2015, I'd like to emphasize the importance of advancing women's rights around the world. In 2015, it is completely unacceptable that women still do not posses the same rights as men. My grandmother raised her family and put food on the table to ensure that her children and grandchildren received the education and care they deserved. I am incredibly proud of my grandmother and all women like her who are the rocks of their families. I am fighting for women's rights because it is each generation's obligation's to ensure that the next generation is better off than the previous. I fight for my daughter and granddaughter, who I hope will one day live in a world where there is true gender equality. In a time where women should be equal to men, there are unspeakable atrocities being committed all over the world. For example, Boko Haram kidnapped over 300 school girls, drawing the ire of global activists. By passing this legislation, we will become leaders in the worldwide fight against misogyny. This bill requires countries around the world to develop civil registration and statistical programs to better trace women's information. In addition, it prevents governments from discriminating against women, while creating a policy framework to improve access to economic and property ownership. I sincerely hope that governments draft strong legislation that changes the current policy.…
