On the recordFebruary 29, 2012
Today I rise to honor the start of Women's History Month, which starts tomorrow. This month gives us all the opportunity to recognize the important and glass ceiling-shattering work women across our country and around the world have done and continue to do. Despite the tremendous progress that has been made over the past century towards gender equality, more still needs to be done. Over the last 14 months, we've seen the rights of women come under attack again and again in this body. Though I firmly believe in encouraging healthy debate, the attacks that we have seen are an affront to the rights and health of women around this country. That's why I was so heartened by the recent compromise on contraceptive care. While I have deep respect for the religious and moral beliefs of all Americans, I am pleased with this compromise because these guidelines increase access to contraceptive services for women while respecting religious liberty. It protects the beliefs and health of all American women and families. In the spirit of Women's History Month, I ask that we put an end to this partisan bickering and focus on achieving better women's health. ____________________
