Secretary Perry's statement on Women’s Equality Day, Aug. 26, 2017, marking the 97th anniversary of the 19th Amendment securing women’s right to vote.
August 25, 2017On August 26, 2017, we celebrate Women’s Equality Day which marks the 97th anniversary of the certification of the 19th Amendment securing women’s right to vote. This was made possible by generations of women and men who spoke out to make our country more equal in all that we do. The women’s suffrage movement is a story of American values. We remember those who courageously marched, protested, and campaigned to achieve their goal. That journey was marked by a sense of optimism and faith in our country, and we honor their leadership and thank them.
As we celebrate the anniversary of this hard-won achievement we pledge to continue fighting for equality for women and girls. The Department of Energy is committed to increasing the participation of women and girls in the energy sector and in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
We are dedicated to broadening our recruitment efforts, supporting women in the workforce, collaborating with diverse professional organizations, and offering workforce leadership development to foster equality at the Department. To learn more about these efforts please visit energy.gov/women.
This work takes all of us. Think about what you can do to engage the next generation in STEM careers and government service. Can you be a mentor or role model? Speak to a classroom of young minds? Volunteer at STEM organizations?
Think about the ability that you have, that we collectively have before us. We can change the world through our work in government on scientific, technical, and groundbreaking issues. While doing so let’s ensure that women are able to be part of leading that work at every step of the way.
On Women’s Equality Day, as we recognize the accomplishments that so many women fought to achieve, we rededicate ourselves to tackling the challenges that remain for women and girls, because we know that when women succeed, we all succeed.
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Women in Energy
Rick Perry
Former Secretary of Energy Rick Perry served as the 14th Secretary of Energy.
Prior to joining the Administration as Secretary of Energy, Perry served as the 47th governor of Texas. As Governor of the Lone Star State, Perry championed conservative principles that helped Texas become America’s economic engine.
Governor Rick Perry is a veteran of the United States Air Force, having flown C-130 tactical airlift aircraft in Europe and the Middle East. He is deeply involved with supporting the active duty and veteran community, both as Governor and now as Secretary of Energy.
Perry earned distinction early in his life as an Eagle Scout. He was one of the first in his family to go to college, earning a degree in Animal Science from Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and a Yell Leader.
He is a lifetime member of both the NRA and American Legion Post #75.
Perry married his childhood sweetheart, Anita, in 1982. They have two children, two beautiful granddaughters, and a grandson who was born on the 4th of July of this year.