WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10) today issued the following statement in recognition of National Women’s History Month:

“National Women’s History Month is a time to honor American women for their historic accomplishments and contributions to our nation. From initiating powerful social and political movements to embracing vibrant cultural movements, American women have played crucial roles in every part of our society.

“Brooklyn’s Tenth Congressional District has produced some of the country’s finest female leaders, including Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, our nation’s first African American woman elected to Congress. Congresswoman Chisholm’s ‘Unbought and Unbossed’ political style allowed her to break through many back doors and glass ceilings, blazing a pathway for generations of women and people of color. As one of her closest friends and former colleagues, I am honored to serve areas of Brooklyn that were once part of Congresswoman Chisholm’s district.

“Last year, I joined my colleagues in Congress to pass the historic Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. This legislation is an important step in the fight to ensure equal pay for women but at the same time it is not a cure. We continue to have an average gender pay gap that continues to challenge many hardworking women and their families. Therefore, I remain committed to ending the fight for equal pay.

“I encourage all Americans to take time this month to honor the countless contributions of American women to our community, our state and our nation.”

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