[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 145 (Friday, October 24, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2090]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS ON WOMEN'S 
                                 ISSUES

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL R. McNULTY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 24, 1997

  Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join with Representative 
Eleanor Holmes Norton and others in commemorating the 20th anniversary 
of the founding of the Congressional Caucus on Women's Issues.
  Since it was first formed in 1977, the Caucus has had a tremendous 
impact on this body, and has played an important role in efforts to 
recognize that the diversity of America is our preeminent strength.
  John Kennedy once said: ``Effort and courage are not enough without 
purpose and direction.'' For the last 20 years the Caucus has given 
direction and purpose to issues of particular importance to women, 
families, and children.
  In the last few years the Caucus has undergone some changes, but its 
role as the premier vehicle for raising and addressing the concerns of 
women has remained the same. The Caucus has shaped critical public 
policy such as equal pay, domestic violence, breast cancer research, 
family leave and access to quality health care.
  While we have made significant advances in moving toward gender 
equity, progress has been slow and much more work needs to be done. If 
we hope to ensure equality, this Congress must continue the commitment 
necessary to remove the economic, political and educational barriers 
which hinder far too many women.
  As the father of four daughters, I am well aware of the obstacles 
which women face and I am proud of the progress we've made in the last 
20 years. Many of these changes are a direct result of the great work 
done by the Caucus--in serving as a catalyst in efforts to increase 
opportunity and ensure equality for all Americans.
  In celebration of these achievements, I urge all Members of the 
House--and all my fellow Americans--to recognize the accomplishments of 
the Congressional Caucus on Women's Issues on the occasion of its 20th 
anniversary.

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