[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 24 (Thursday, March 7, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HIGHLIGHTING IMPORTANCE OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. CAROLYN C. KILPATRICK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 7, 2002

  Ms. KILPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support and highlight 
the importance of International Women's Day on March 8. International 
Women's Day honors the history and important work of women around the 
world in their fight toward equality, justice, and peace. While this 
day symbolizes the advancement and great strides that have been made, 
this day also symbolizes the work that still needs to be done to break 
down the barriers and injustices women continue to face day after day.
  In our nation and around the world, women continue to be victims of 
violence. Domestic violence, sexual assault, and rape are just a few 
forms of the injustices perpetrated against women. The statistics are 
startling. In our nation, at least I out of 6 women and girls has been 
beaten or sexually abused in her lifetime. Worldwide, the percentage 
increases dramatically to I out of every 3 women. These numbers speak 
to the continued and gross victimization that women face.
  Here at home and around the world, we need to continue our efforts to 
ensure that women are provided with the safeguards, services, and tools 
they need, namely an education, to break the cycle of violence. 
Education empowers individuals and would give women the opportunity to 
be independent and self-reliant. No woman anywhere should have to 
continue to be a victim of violence and discrimination. International 
Women's Day represents this important goal.

                          ____________________