Happy International Women's Day!

Happy International Women’s Day and Women's History Month! Women have always shaped our society, but their accomplishments are often minimized or excluded from history. Women’s History Month is about highlighting and celebrating those successes, but it’s also about recognizing the ways women experience unequal treatment so that we can begin to make progress. 

One of the ways we desperately need to make progress is violence against women. One out of every three women worldwide will be physically, sexually, or otherwise abused during her lifetime, with rates reaching 70 percent in some countries. Of all women murdered in the U.S., about 63 percent are killed by an intimate partner, and a significant number of crimes are never reported. This month, I will be introducing the International Day of Elimination of Violence Against Women, a U.N celebrated day, that I believe will bring more awareness to this important issue across the world and in the U.S

None of these issues have simple solutions – they’re a result of years of bias, systemic discrimination, and social stigmas. But each of these issues require us to empower women to break their silence and speak up – for themselves and for others. 

One way I’m working to change the culture of silence is within government agencies. Through my leadership role on the CIA Subcommittee, I fought for survivors of sexual assault and harassment within the CIA. Thanks to my work, the CIA is developing a new office and new policies to combat sexual assault and harassment, including a new system of reporting. 

I’ve also made women’s health a priority. Reproductive health is under attack, but as a member of the Pro-Choice Caucus, I’ll keep voting to preserve your rights. I’m fighting to protect and restore access to abortion to ensure everyone can control their bodies, lives, and futures. Abortion bans are unpopular, undemocratic, and unsafe. Anti-abortion rights lawmakers continue to ignore the devastation they are causing and push their agenda no matter the costs – and it must end. The lives and livelihoods of women from all corners of our country depend on it. 

Throughout Women’s History Month, I’ll keep highlighting the impact of women and how I’m working to advance equality. In addition, throughout the year you can nominate a Hoosier female veteran who deserves to be recognized. Far too often Hoosier women veterans are overlooked, underrepresented, and do not always receive the support and recognition they deserve - even within veteran communities. That’s why I’m recognizing outstanding Hoosier women veterans who have gone above and beyond for our nation and community. 

Nominate a deserving candidate by filling out this form! 

Annual Youth Opportunities Fair:

Save the date! My Annual Youth Opportunities Fair will be held on Tuesday, March 12th from noon – 7:00p.m. at the Ivy Tech Culinary and Conference Center, 2820 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN 46208. Each year, hundreds of youths of all ages – as well as parents, grandparents, and caregivers – attend this event to access information on summer programs, internships, year-round programs, and more. Giving young people enriching and fun opportunities during the summer months is key to their development and growth, and it strengthens our community too. My Your Opportunity Fair ensures you and your family can explore all your options in one place. This event is FREE to attend! Learn more here.   

Team Carson is Here to Serve: 

Did you know that in 2023, my office responded to over 70,000 of your messages and brought $1.5 MILLION directly back to Indianapolis families? Team Carson is here to serve you – get in touch to find out how we can help you navigate a federal agency, access government benefits, or recognize a community member’s milestone. 

For updates throughout the week, don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Your Friend,

André