Last weekend, Women for Obama groups in 29 Iowa communities hosted Women for Change events. At each organizing event, local women met with undecided friends and neighbors in their community to discuss why they believe Obama is the best candidate to transform the country and bring an end to “politics as usual.”
“If we want to make progress on health care for all and quality education for our children, then we need a president who can work in a bipartisan way to fight for women and actually get things done,” said Cedar Rapids resident Libby Slappey. “Barack has a proven track record of working across the aisle to pass tough legislation and I’m confident he’s the best candidate to fight for me, and women across America, as President.”
While traveling in Iowa, Obama joined a conference call with women attending the events to speak with them directly about his vision and making progress on the challenges women face. Women on the call discussed the need for accessible health care coverage, child care services, and education. Obama talked about his plan to save the average American family up to $2,500 a year in health care costs and his commitment to health care for all by the end of his first term as president.
“We know there is still a problem when a working mom can lose her job if she takes time off to care for her sick child,” he said. “As president, I will work to enforce the Equal Pay Act, fight job discrimination, and improve child care options and family medical leave. Ensuring that every American has equal rights and opportunities, regardless of gender, has been a priority of mine throughout my political career, and will remain a top priority in my administration.”
Earlier this month, 150 women gathered in Des Moines for a day-long Women for Obama training. Throughout the day, the women learned organizing techniques they can use in their communities. The events are one of the several ways in which women are taking an active role in the Obama campaign by reaching out to their friends and neighbors.
In the last few months, several influential Iowa women have agreed to play a prominent role in Obama’s Campaign including Rep. Pam Jochum, Rep. Janet Petersen, retired Iowa Supreme Court Justice Linda Neuman, Rep. Helen Miller, and Rep. Elesha Gayman.
