Congressman Jim Moran's News Commentary

A topic of debate that has received far less attention in recent years than it deserves is the issue of women's rights. While much progress has been made in past decades, the equality of women in the U.S. and throughout the world has yet to be reached. From the significant gender gap in pay to the battle over reproductive rights, policy areas greatly affecting the lives of women deserve more attention.

In Virginia's 8th District alone, women represent over half of the population (totaling around 325,000). More than two-thirds are also members of the Northern Virginia workforce. Compared to other parts of the country, this is a high level of workforce participation. Yet, the median income for women is still substantially lower than their male counterparts. The 2000 Census found that in Northern Virginia, men earn roughly $9000 more on average than their female counterparts. As a cosponsor of the "Paycheck Fairness Act," (H.R. 1688) which would help balance gender gap differences between men and women, I fully support efforts to give people equal pay for equal work. Women have helped keep this country running since its inception and don't deserve to be penalized simply because of their gender.

On the issue of reproductive rights, the current Bush-Cheney Administration and Republican controlled Congress have lead the way in working to repeal a woman's right to choose. Whether it be stubbornly pursuing an unconstitutional partial birth abortion ban that does not take the health of the mother into account or efforts to eliminate funding for family planning services, their record is harmful to the rights of women. I strongly support a women's right to choose and have stood in opposition to these regressive actions.

In an effort to highlight these and other issues affecting women, I am holding my annual Women's Issues Conference on Saturday, September 18th. The conference will feature award winning journalist and syndicated columnist Helen Thomas, who will speak about her experience breaking down barriers for women in world of journalism. The Conference also includes breakout sessions discussing topics ranging from healthy living initiatives to career development strategies. If you are interested in attending, please call (703) 922-8282 to pre-register or come to Minnie Howard School, located at 3801 W. Braddock Rd. in Alexandria. The event will run from 10:00a.m. to 2:30p.m. and admission is free and open to the public.

The rights of women, both in the U.S. and abroad, need to be secured and protected. Our nation's history has shown a slow but steady progression expanding the rights of all Americans, including women. After so much progress, we cannot afford to go backwards or halt momentum.