[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 33 (Thursday, March 17, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S2991]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         RUTH CHICKERING CLUSEN

 Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I was deeply saddened at the 
passing of Ruth Chickering Clusen, a true champion for the environment 
and women's causes, and a dear friend whose memory I will always 
cherish.
  Ruth's deep dedication to women's rights led to her outstanding 
leadership as president of both the Wisconsin and National League of 
Women Voters. As president, Ruth was at the forefront of the League's 
historic effort to pass an Equal Rights Amendment. Her national 
leadership put her at the center of the 1976 Presidential campaign when 
she hosted a debate between Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter.
  Ruth's commitment to women's rights was mirrored in her advocacy for 
the environment. Her tireless activism eventually led to her work as an 
Assistant Secretary on the environment in President Carter's Department 
of Energy, and to make a run for Congress in Wisconsin in 1982.
  Whether she was teaching English to students or moderating 
Presidential candidates, Ruth was a true inspiration to those around 
her, and I am grateful to have been able to call her a friend.

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