Women's History Month Highlights Both Contributions and Inequalities

As we come to the conclusion of Women’s History Month, we celebrate the contributions of women to all facets of our society. However, inequality still remains, particularly gender parity in elected office.

Our friends at FairVote have released The State of Women’s Representation 2013-2014. According to the report, women account for only 18% of Congressional seats, 24% of state legislative seats, and 10% of governorships. These overall trends are not changing. The Inter-Parliamentary Union notes that as of January 1, 2014, the United States ranks 83rd in the world for the percentage of women who hold elected office in Congress. This is despite 7.8 million more women voting in the 2012 Presidential Election that men. So how are we still losing ground?

FairVote asserts that unfair redistricting, sexism, and lack of funding are primary causes of the low representation of women in elected office. They suggest more recruitment of women by parties and key stakeholder groups, and the introduction of practices that facilitate balancing of family and service to reduce this gender gap. The 2014 midterm elections offer an opportunity to have your voice heard and help correct this imbalance. Register and request a ballot here.