Duckworth offers women opportunity

What is it the GOP has against women? Evidently, they have something. Never mind the control over women's bodies the party is in constant pursuit of, on Sept. 15 the Republican Party leveled another blow against women. In voting down the Paycheck Fairness Act, Senate Republicans decided against strengthening federal equal pay laws for women. As appalling as this vote may be, it should come as no surprise. Time and time again, the GOP has made it clear that women's rights are not a priority.

Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth has actively taken a stand on the issue, stating that "the fact that women only make 77 cents on the dollar nationally not only hurts women, but also working families trying to make ends meet. Women in Illinois on average earn nearly $12,000 less than their male counterparts, and I know that my neighbors believe that our daughters deserve better."

I want to keep Rep. Duckworth and representatives who take my rights and freedoms seriously in Washington to combat this aggression against women. The congresswoman continues to engage women in the community to have open and serious conversations about the ongoing issues in order to create necessary change. As a young woman who is becoming a working professional in an already struggling economy, I find it disheartening that additional barriers are set against me. I am proud to know that Congresswoman Duckworth will continue to fight for equal opportunity for both genders, which is one of the many reasons she has my vote this Nov. 4.

Elizabeth Hurley

Elk Grove Village