Compel Iowa to create a women’s holiday

We are nearly upon March - the light at the end of the tunnel of winter - and Women's History Month. There will be many celebrations and events recognizing women. While this month is helpful to illuminate the accomplishments of women from the past and present, I believe it is not enough.

Not until there is gender equity in the workplace, government, and all other sectors of life would this be enough. Not until all women are paid equally with their male counterparts. Not until we all can agree that anyone openly bragging about grabbing women's genitals is wrong. Period.

That is why I submit Iowa needs to create a state holiday to recognize the accomplishments and worth of women. This holiday ideally would be sometime in March or Aug. 26, Women's Equality Day - when the 19th Amendment was certified. I believe Iowa should women's achievements in the suffrage movement, advancements in all fields, and contributions to our society.

First, Iowans must step forward and compel the state to create a holiday celebrating and honoring women's achievements. I have created an online petition - available at http://tinyurl.com/ybgcgctf - to do so. I will hand deliver this petition to lawmakers in March.

It will be the first step, but I'm prepared to win this on behalf of the women who fought before me and the ones who will continue to in the future.

Erin Owen

Cedar Rapids