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Women's Work: Not Yet Done
At GCC, Bysiewicz talks women and politics
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Business New Haven
12/08/2003
By: Theresa L. Corso
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On December 3, Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz addressed a seminar group of more than 125 people at Gateway Community College's Long Wharf campus in New Haven. Sponsored by the Gateway Community College Women's Center, the seminar focused on "Women in Special Occupations."
Bysiewicz outlined the importance of women in the workforce, as well as the role of women in politics.
"If this country is to prosper in this new century and global economy, we must foster a workforce that uses the talents of all segments of the population," said Bysiewicz. This includes science, engineering and technology, which Bysiewicz said are fields of study in which women are under-represented.
The right to vote, a privilege women obtained 83 years ago, received special emphasis from Bysiewicz, whose name has been mention as a possible gubernatorial candidate next year.
"Vote; make your voice heard," she said. "Support candidates that support your priorities; teach your children to be voters and be active participants in our democracy."
One of only ten female secretaries of state, the Middletown Democrat said that Connecticut has been at the forefront of making progress for women in politics. Bysiewicz's own inspiration for her involvement in politics was Gov. Ella T. Grasso, the state's first female governor. "Ella Grasso served as a tremendous inspiration for women and is one reason we have done so well with women serving in politics," explained Bysiewicz.
Although strides have been made by women in serving more prominent roles in professions once dominated by males, Bysiewicz believes that only after more women have become senators and governors will there be a female president.
Bysiewicz said that one reason more women do not become involved in politics is because of the cost it takes to run a campaign. Because of this, she is a outspoken supporter of campaign finance reform and believes in changing the way political campaigns are financed on the state and national levels.
Responsible for overseeing elections, maintaining state records, registering businesses and publishing the State Register & Manual, Bysiewicz was first elected to her position in 1998 and serves as the state's 72nd secretary of state. Previously, she served in the state legislature for three terms representing the 100th Assembly district.
Bysiewicz created "Youth Vote," a program educating students about the election process. She supports the testing of electronic voting machines that are accessible to people with disabilities and provide accurate election tabulations.
- Theresa L. Corso
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