U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Luján

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL News:

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District released the following statement today on Women’s History Month, which is celebrated during the month of March.

“Women’s History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and achievements that women have made in every aspect of our society. As we celebrate the progress that has been made, we must continue to push for greater equality, not only for women today, but also for the next generations of women.

“We must continue to fight for fairness in the workplace and commit to policies that support women and their families. Women have an increasingly stronger presence in the workforce; however, a wage gap still exists with women only earning 78 cents for every dollar earned by men, and women of color earning even less. More and more women act as both caretakers and earners, making the issues of paycheck fairness and equal pay important to not just women, but to their families and our economy.

“Expanding educational opportunities for all Americans, including young women, is of critical importance, particularly when it comes to the fields of science, technology, engineering and math that are vital to our economic competitiveness.  Women are underrepresented in the STEM fields despite the fact that many discoveries by women have pioneered modern technology and pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the pursuit of knowledge. Encouraging people to study STEM at an early age, especially young ladies, is critical to ensure that instead of just using the next great app, they will be the one to create it.

“This Women’s History Month, let us celebrate all that women have accomplished and contributed while continuing to advocate for equality and greater opportunity, because when women succeed, America succeeds.”