Rep. Matsui Recognizes March as Women's History Month; Salutes Local Women Leaders

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Alexis Marks or Mara Lee

(202) 225-7163

Sacramento is fortunate to have many women civic, business, and community leaders who are pioneers in their fields. Today, Congresswoman Matsui recognized such leaders as: Dr. Claire Pomeroy, who serves as the UC Davis Vice Chancellor for Human Health Sciences and Dean of the School of Medicine; Donna Sanderson, the Executive Director of Sacramento's Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation; and Jane Hagedorn, Chief Executive Officer of Breathe California's Sacramento chapter.

"Claire, Donna, and Jane, along with countless other women from Sacramento and our nation have followed in the footsteps of trailblazers such as Clara Barton, the historic nurse that founded the Red Cross. Their commitment to improving and investing in Sacramento's health care community has made them role models for others to follow," said Rep. Matsui.

andquot;Congresswoman Matsui continues to provide strong leadership in representing the people who live here in the capital area of our country's most populous state. She is a true champion for her constituents' values of diversity and social justice and she continues to work with all of us to advance important issues such as education, health care and medical research," said Dr. Pomeroy.

Rep. Matsui has made advancing equal rights for women and all Americans a priority in Washington, and recently voted for Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which demands equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender. This bill is an important step in advancing women's access to equal pay and benefits, especially at a time when Sacramento women and families are faced with serious economic challenges and rising healthcare costs.

"Congresswoman Matsui has been a leader on women's health issues nationally and here in Sacramento, and has been a tremendous advocate for breast cancer research; garnering support for patient and survivor programs, and serving as a role model for women as she fights for Sacramento in the halls of Congress," stated Sanderson. "We are proud to have her represent Sacramento women and families as we celebrate such an important month for women's history throughout the country."