Celebrating Women
A Note from Congressman Carson
Dear Friend,
Each year in March we celebrate Women's History Month to honor the important contributions women have made to American society throughout our history and the progress that has been made in the ongoing struggle for women's rights.
Great women like Congresswoman Julia Carson, Susan B. Anthony, Rosa Parks, Emilia Earhart and Wilma Rudolph strived to advance society, and in the process opened the door of opportunity for future generations. Because of their courage, women today hold positions of influence never imagined just a few generations ago. The 113th Congress is a perfect example as a record number of women were elected to serve in our nation's capitol – 20 in the Senate and 82 in the House.
Still, even in 2014, women are faced with barriers in the workplace and society. We must continue to push to curb violent crimes against women, ensure equal pay for equal work, , promote women-owned businesses, and support work-family balance. These should not just be considered women's issues because we all benefit from equal opportunity. Supporting women and girls in the United States and around the world is an investment in our future.
This month as we remember those who fought for the advancement of women, let us commit ourselves to ensuring women thrive, because when women succeed, America succeeds.
Regards,
André
Inside Scoop
Constituent Services: Citizenship, Visas and Passports
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) recently contacted Congressman Carson regarding a temporary visa for an Australian conductor, Daniel Smith. Mr. Smith was scheduled to visit Indianapolis as a guest conductor for several ISO performances in January 2014. Despite having filed all required documentation and applied for premium processing, the petition's review was stalled. The ISO explained that if Mr. Smith did not arrive in time for scheduled practices, the performances could be jeopardized. Congressman Carson and his staff worked with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of State to review the application and process the visa in time for Mr. Smith to attend the practices and performances. In a letter to Congressman Carson, the ISO's Chief Executive Officer Gary Ginstling wrote: "These concerts marked Mr. Smith's United States debut as a conductor. Thanks to your office, the people of Indianapolis had the opportunity to experience this young, talented conductor's work before anyone else in the country."
Congressman Carson and his staff are committed to providing the highest level of constituent service to the people and organizations of Indianapolis. One of the services provided is assistance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of State to address immigrant and temporary visa petitions, citizenship and passport questions and other international travel questions.
If you have questions or need assistance with a federal agency, please contact Congressman Carson's Indianapolis Office at 317-283-6516.
National Consumer Protection Week
Every day millions of Americans participate in our economy through a variety of activities such as purchasing and selling goods or applying for loans and mortgages. Regrettably, dishonest business practices, identify theft and scams are all too common and can seriously hurt an individual's financial health. This is why government agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Federal Citizen Information Center have partnered with other organization to highlight consumer services and protections during National Consumer Protection Week. The coordinated effort informs Americans about how to make smart decisions as consumers while protecting their rights.
Visit https://www.ncpw.gov/ to learn more about National Consumer Protection Week and connect with the agencies that support consumers throughout the year.
Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility
One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. With the 2014 elections just a few months away, you may be asking yourself: Am I registered to vote? Where is my nearest polling place? If you live in Indiana, Click here to register to vote online, find your nearest polling place, and confirm your voter registration.
Below are important dates for Indiana voters to note:
April 7, 2014 Voter Registration Ends
May 6, 2014 Primary Election Day
May 20, 2014 Voter Registration Begins
October 6, 2014 Voter Registration Ends
November 4, 2014 General Election Day