Rep. Dennis M. O’Brien
Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(717) 787-4610
Contact: Jeanne H. Schmedlen
Director of Special Projects and Chief of Protocol
(717) 705-1894
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 11, 2008
House Speaker Marks Women’s History Month 2008 with ‘Women of Perseverance’ Program at Capitol
HARRISBURG – Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Dennis M. O’Brien today joined female House members and representatives from the Pennsylvania Humanities Council and other guests to celebrate Women’s History Month at the state Capitol. O’Brien particularly praised women elected representatives in a ceremony titled “Women of Perseverance.”
“In the House of Representatives, 27 women have introduced to lawmaking... a whole new perspective. Lawmaking is a process that achieves the best product when it has many different views,” O’Brien said. “Women have brought this variety of views to the legislature and now lead their colleagues to solutions on important issues such as health care, domestic and child abuse, education and the war on drugs.”
As part of the celebration, O’Brien recognized Lieutenant Governor Catherine Baker Knoll for her historic role as Pennsylvania’s first female lieutenant governor.
“Women’s History Month has always been a special time of the year for me,” said Knoll. “The strong and intelligent women who have led our Commonwealth to greatness are celebrated by Speaker O’Brien’s special tribute to their success today.”
The Women’s History Month celebration also included presentations by Reps. Sandra Major, R-Susquehanna, and Kathy Manderino, D-Philadelphia.
In addition, the Pennsylvania Humanities Council underwrote historian Josephine Marie Dunn’s presentation “Alive to the Call: Women and History in Northeastern Pennsylvania.” The PHC is a long-time partner with the Speaker’s Office in the annual recognition.
“This special event, recognizing women’s past achievements, exemplifies our collaboration with the Speaker’s Office and reminds us of an urgent need for the future,” said Executive Director Joseph J. Kelly. “We must give special recognition to individuals whose lives benefit others,and ensure they have the necessary support to do their work.”
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