DES MOINES – IDP Women’s Caucus Chair, Melinda Jones issued the following statement in recognition of International Women’s Day:
“Today, we celebrate International Women’s Day to commemorate the accomplishments, innovations, and contributions of the brave and talented women who came before us. In Iowa, we are proud of our rich history as a pioneer for women’s rights that includes the first female to practice law and the first state university to admit women as students.
“We remember the brave men and women who fought and died for women’s suffrage and equal rights. We pledge to boldly carry on their legacy of resistance, persistence, and determination. We must encourage all women to carry on the torch from our successes and work to implement the change that is necessary across the globe to see that all women’s rights are recognized and respected.
“As we celebrate our accomplishments and progress, we realize that the fight is far from over as women continue to be undervalued, demeaned and denigrated in every corner of the world. In Iowa and across the United States, women still struggle against misogyny and gender discrimination that often results in sexual, emotional and physical abuse. We must strive on this day and every day to be bold advocates and leaders for change and fight back against institutional sexism and gender inequality.”