In honor of Women's Equality Day on Friday August 26, Julie Schwam Harris and Louisiana State Representative Helena Moreno gave presentations recognizing women who serve in state and local government. They discussed legislative accomplishments, the representation of women and challenges that women still face today.
Dr. Mirya Holman, a professor at Tulane University, also presented excerpts and insight from her report titled "The Status of Women in New Orleans Since Katrina." This 74-page report is a comprehensive evaluation that details the changes for women in New Orleans since Katrina. According to the report, there has been an increase in college enrollment, a reduction in the amount of teenage pregnancies, and an increase in adult pregnancies, indicating that New Orleans is a city where adults feel comfortable raising their families. However, women still face barriers in the city and throughout the country such as higher poverty rates as compared to men and a larger wage gap.
"As we know, women have proven repeatedly to be strong forces for improving our community, economy and infrastructure; however, Louisiana ranks as one of the worst states when it comes to policies involving women," said District "B" Councilmember LaToya Cantrell. "I think it is imperative for us to take concrete actions to address these inequalities we just heard about. It is important that we recognize these women in government today."
Following the presentation, the Council unanimously voted to adopt a resolution committed to ending discrimination against women in New Orleans. The resolution will utilize the principles of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women treaty (CEDAW), which was adopted by the United Nations as an international bill of rights for women in 1979.
This resolution is the first step toward conducting research and promoting the advancement of women through local legislation. Showing support for CEDAW formalizes the Council's dedication to ensuring women and girls equal access to academic, economic, and business opportunities in New Orleans.