It wasn’t until the 20th century that women got the right to participate as equals and vote amongst men, but it is this election in 2012 where women have truly broken new ground. The next U.S. Congress has the largest number of women ever, with 77 in the House and 20 in the Senate. Women’s issues have become a huge platform in this year’s election, forcing candidates to take stances on rape, abortion, and medical insurance on contraception.
Tammy Baldwin, representing Wisconsin, was the first openly gay, female senator elected to chamber. Throughout this election, she proved that women have the ability to make a difference in this ever-changing, opinion-driven world. Although making history with her sexual orientation is a coincidence, Baldwin has made a difference in the political world, as many are still against who she is and what she stands for. Baldwin is known for her undeniably outspoken beliefs, and as a woman, has what it takes to inspire people they can make a difference and achieve the unexpected. As the first openly gay senator, she gives hope to those who are ostracized by their ways of life.
Tammy Duckworth of Illinois was elected into Congress for her first time. After serving in the Iraq war and losing both her legs in combat, Duckworth was more than prepared to take on Republican candidate, Joe Walsh. Quoted as the “ugliest but most entertaining” race of the election by Slate.com, Duckworth based most of her campaign on attacking her opponent on his out-of-touch issues and how her war experience has shaped her views on foreign policy. As a woman who has fought and survived combat, she is using her experiences to better America and is someone every woman can look up to. Duckworth is a strong-willed individual who is just starting her fight.
Mazie Hirono, the first U.S. Senator born in Japan, is Buddhist and Asian American. She was elected in Hawaii on Nov. 6. Hirono immigrated to the United States when she was 8 years old and became a citizen in 1959, the same year Hawaii became a state. Although she has years of political experience behind her, this was the first time Hirono has run for U.S. Senate. Hirono has received extreme support from the Aloha State and continues to be an example for women of all backgrounds to encourage them to pursue their political dreams. In being elected based on her willingness to stand up for her rights and overcome obstacles, Hirono proves how much society has changed over the past century.
Women’s representation has skyrocketed these past years, and it is safe to say this election proved how important women’s representation is in politics. We dedicate these opportunities and successes to our mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers who have stood up for our right, and those activists who continue to fight today. It’s important to be proud of our fellow representatives and appreciate how far we have come in society. It’s about time. Congratulations to all of the women taking office in a few short months!
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