Women’s Equality Day Statement from Robin Wilt

Ninety years ago today, the 19th Amendment was enacted, providing American women the right to vote.  As we mark this milestone with Women's Equality Day, and reflect on the achievements of women in our political process over these past 90 years, I am struck by how far we still have to go.

As Susan B. Anthony said, "there never will be complete equality until women themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers." Yet at present, of the 62 members of the New York State Senate, only 10 are women.  New York, once a pioneer in women's rights, ranks 24th in the nation in the number of elected representatives who are women.

We can do better, and with your help we will.

Working women support countless households across our state, but they continue to earn less than men who do the same work.  And yet the New York State Senate and my opponent voted down the Fair Pay Act, which "provides that it shall be an unlawful employment practice for an employer to discriminate between employees on the basis of sex, race and/or national origin by paying different wages."

Help end the era of inequality.

Susan B. Anthony knew that the struggle for justice was never easy.  She faced an uphill battle against those intent on keeping women's rights down.  Today, we face a challenging fight to provide economic opportunity and tax relief to working families; safe, effective schools for our children; and quality, affordable health care for all New Yorkers.  But we take heart in remembering the legacy of Susan B. Anthony, who reminds us that when the cause is just, "failure is impossible."

Please support our campaign to change Albany.

Robin Wilt