November 14, 2009

Letters: Voices of women must be heard in Pierre

Shannon S. Stevens, Co-Chairwoman,

South Dakota Advocacy Network for Women

Sioux Falls

I'm glad Argus Leader columnist David Kranz recognizes the reality that more women's voices are needed in Pierre.

Year after year the Legislature gives short shrift to the issues about which women care, including education, health care, freedom from violence and reproductive health.

Plenty of opportunities are available to women seeking office - from school board to the U.S. Senate. The South Dakota chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus and the South Dakota Democratic Party recently offered preparative candidate trainings.

Political action committee funds are available to candidates who support (or don't support) specific issues. Take, for instance, the strategy of Equality South Dakota. It successfully found pro-equality, Republican candidates to support just by placing a few ads.

I encourage all women to join me in Pierre, Feb. 1, for Women 4 Women Day. The South Dakota Advocacy Network for Women sponsors this nonpartisan annual event that includes lobby and candidacy training as well as direct lobbying opportunities.

Make your voice heard. Help us make sure the '80s and '90s aren't the only heyday for women in our state.