When it comes to politics, that glass ceiling is very real. Throughout a forty year career preceding my political efforts, I never felt my options or opportunities limited in any way by my sex. But in politics, I’m afraid it’s an entirely different story. My personality, my career, my entire life, have been derided and demeaned in ways that would never have passed muster were I a man. And, I’m sorry to say, by women as well as by men. It’s painful to see any woman misogynistically dismissed; it’s a betrayal not only of her but of the issues she stands for.
So there is a lot of work left to do, in our minds as well as our society. Furthering the opportunities of women has as much to do with changing our attitudes as with changing events. I met Nikki Haley when I was in New Hampshire, and I remarked to her, “Wouldn’t it be great if you and I were the nominees?” She smiled and said, “It’s about time, isn’t it?”
I agree. It is more than time. And I thank you for the effort we are making together. The talks I’ve given in Michigan and California over the last two weeks absolutely convince me we’re moving the needle. Please give as generously as you can so we can continue.
For ages we’ve been rocking the cradle; now let’s rock the boat.
