Upstate New York Members of Congress Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize National Women's Rights History Project

Statement

Today, the last day of Women's History Month, Congressmembers Louise M. Slaughter (NY-25), Richard Hanna (NY-22), Paul Tonko (NY-20), John Katko (NY-24), and Tom Reed (NY-23), introduced legislation to reauthorize the National Women's Rights History Project Act. The act was signed into law in 2009 after nearly a decade of work by Rep. Slaughter and former New York Senator Hillary Clinton, and will be influential in supporting and promoting the efforts of the women's rights movement in Upstate New York and throughout the country. Reauthorization is a critical step in securing funds to establish this project.

"The history of women's rights in this country is a story of perseverance, unity, and sacrifice. It is a story that must be told and remembered. Given the special role Upstate New York has played in this story, I can think of no better place to commemorate the women's rights movement. Through the Women's Rights History Project, we will recognize and remember the women's rights movement and honor the women and men who were part of the battle for civil rights," said Rep. Slaughter, the first chairwoman of the powerful House Committee on Rules.

"We must always remember some of the greatest women in our history bravely gathered right here in upstate New York to begin a national conversation about the role of women in American society," Rep. Hanna said. "That conversation continues today. The National Women's Rights History Project Act will ensure that we continue to promote this significant part of our history. I thank Congresswoman Slaughter for her leadership and commitment on this important issue."

"Almost 95 years after women were finally granted the right to vote, it is critical to recognize the contributions our mothers, daughters, and sisters have made to support the success of our nation and mold today's unique American identity," Rep. Tonko said. "I am proud to serve with my colleagues that make up the largest number of women in Congress in our nation's history, and I look forward to working with them to see this legislation finally become law. Moving forward, it should be a top priority for the House to also pass legislation that closes the gender pay gap, provides paid family and medical leave, and addresses the many other issues that affect American women and their families across the nation."

"I'm proud to join my upstate New York colleagues to support legislation to reauthorize the National Women's Rights History Project Act," said Rep. John Katko. "Conserving the many historic treasures throughout New York state is critical to our local tourism efforts, and I commend Rep. Slaughter for her leadership and dedication to ensuring that the actions of the many men and women who fought for voting and equal rights for women are highlighted and preserved in our history.'

"In honor of Women's History month, I am pleased to co-sponsor the National Women's Rights History Project. The women of New York have led the nation in fighting for equality and suffrage. It is only fair that we honor their legacy and educate future women on the trail blazed for them by pioneering New Yorkers," Rep. Reed said. "Upstate New York and the Finger Lakes region are filled with historically significant sites, such as the Women's Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, which played a large role in the advancement of women's suffrage. This worthy project would highlight those locales and link them with an auto route to drive through history. As a father of a daughter and a son, I want both of them to understand the importance our state has played in the progress of our nation to a more perfect union."