Women Win In Washington

By Ariana Sandillo 1-20-2013 

WEBN staff photo

The people have chosen and the women have won. This was a huge year for women in politics.

“This election has really been a mandate for women’s leadership in this country. And as we talk to independent women voters around the country they actually really understand getting more women to these decision making tables is going to move us towards stronger policy for our communities,” EMILY’s List president Stephanie Schriock told WEBN Boston today.

EMILY’s List has been behind women in politics for 28 years. It has been helping women like Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, New Hampshire Governor Maggie Hassan and Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard make their dreams come true.

Senator Elizabeth Warren is the first female senator from the Bay State. She says it’s about time for women to succeed in politics.

“It’s long past when women should be in positions of leadership and I am glad to be there to support my sisters.”

Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono believes the most exciting thing about the new women in Congress is getting the opportunity to work with them.

“I think women also work in a very collaborative way that enables us to make good decisions and move things forward…what I think we portrayed was dynamism, synergy and commitment to working together,” said Hirono.

But the excitement doesn’t stop at Congress. These women have been inspirations for women all across America from celebrities to students.

Award winning actress Taraji P. Henson says she thinks this advancement for women means big things for the country.

“You know it is, it’s an exciting time in politics I must say all around. And this is what America is about. It’s all inclusive…whether you’re gay, white, black, a woman. It doesn’t matter…you can make a dream come true.”

Daniella Olivero is a student at Quinnipiac University who has been inspired by these women.

“I think the future is positive for women in Congress and I think we have a lot to look forward to…a lot of people are respectful of women and respectful of their contribution,” said Olivero.

EMILY’s List held a luncheon in the nation’s capital during Inauguration Weekend.  It was a special celebration of this year’s record of 98 women taking their place in the new 113th Congress.