A Wonderful Day for Women!!!

I normally leave myself out of political discussions, I've found they can ruin friendships and cause great heated debate between couples. But today, I am PROUD to be an American! More importantly, I am proud to be an American Woman! And yes, I'm proud to a feminist too! Today, just 9 days after he was sworn into office, our President Barack Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Act. Lilly has always been my most favorite girls' name and Ledbetter, how very appropiate! Because of this act, women's lives across the country will be much better from now on, including mine! No longer can any employer of mine, or any other woman's, deny me equal pay because I'm a woman! This is such a historic day, a once in lifetime bill passing and a truly monumentous moment in the world of women!

When Colin told me the President had passed this, I didn't believe him, so I looked it up: and it's true. I cried. I actually sincerely cried! I know that probably proves womens' emotion and lack of emotional control. But, still. I've always been a feminist, I've always believed in and campaigned for, women's rights. Even as a very in love, engaged and almost-married woman; my passion for the equal rights of ALL women in this country (and around the globe) has never waivered. And although I may be a little overzealous with it sometimes, although I may drive my man crazy with it; it's days like this that make me proud to call myself a feminist. But the truth is, this isn't just about feminism. This isn't about feminism at all, really. This isn't just about me as a young woman being happy about some bill/act. This is about all women, this about all families getting a better chance at achieving their dreams. It is about women being treated fairly, and being justly compensated for our work. Because honestly, there is no excuse for a woman not to be paid exactly the same wage as a man--who does the job just as well, there is no excuse for lack of wages/compensation for equal ability simply because someone is a woman. None at all. But no more. Gone are the days where it's legal to discriminate against someone based on their gender. And thank God for that! The bill also covers discrimination against someone for their race, which is absolutely just and understandable--and terrific! But, this fair pay for women aspect, it truly means the world to me! And it if you think about it, the fair pay aspect IS the world to women. It is 2009 and it is about damn time we were fairly compensated for our work. I just hope that the young girls and women of tomorrow don't forget the fight it took to get us all here. It's been a long, trecherous journey, especially for Ms. Lilly Ledbetter; but thanks to her, and so many others; they're bravery and courage and refusal to give up the fight...we finally have one more foot in the door when it comes to true and abundant equality. We won the vote, one of us almost ran for President, and now, we'll have equal pay--or at least a chance at the option...and I could not be more proud! I've had mixed feelings about Mr. Obama, but, I can honestly say that today, I am so glad he is President. Because I know in my heart that there is no way this bill/act would've been signed into law with a President John McCain. So, thank you America! Thank you for voting in a man who finally sees the value in women! President Obama is only nine days into his four year run, and he's sure to make mistakes. I'm positive he'll do a few things (or perhaps many) that I'm not proud of, and maybe don't support. But as far as I'm concerned, even if this Lilly Ledbetter act was the only great thing he does/did as President, I'm glad we have him for the time we do! GO AMERICA! And just so you know, GIRLS RULE and WOMEN ROCK! Thank you God for this day, the courageous Ms. Ledbetter and all of the millions of nameless women who fought right along with her! Lord knows I've signed a petition or two in support of this act, and it's so nice to see my efforts rewarded! We really a country being run FOR the people again! Dreams can come true and equality CAN happen! Yay God! Let us celebrate and enjoy and face this epiphany with grace, courage and responsibility! Because ladies, as well know, along with great freedom (such as equal pay) comes great responsibility! Let's prove them right, and prove ourselves worthy of this historic act! We've earned it and because of it, we'll earn more and equally for years to come! Thank you Lord! God Bless America!

In Light N' Love,
-Sarah Liz :)