BIRMINGHAM, AL- Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (AL-7) was honored by the Alabama Women’s Commission at the 1st Annual IMPACT: Celebrating Alabama Women event. The event recognizes women from Alabama who are making positive impacts on their communities, the State of Alabama and the nation. The event also honored Congresswoman Martha Roby (AL-2).

“I am honored to be recognized by the Alabama Women’s Commission,” said Rep. Sewell.  “As the first African American woman to represent the State of Alabama in Congress, I know that I stand on the shoulders of great Alabama women, like the members of the Alabama Women’s Commission, who were freedom fighters and suffrage activists.  I want to commend the women in my district who exemplified courage and strength.  Women like Odessa Woolfolk, Ethel Hall, Amelia Boynton and Theresa Burroughs who advocated for civil rights and helped to build a foundation for future female leaders.  I also want to recognize women statewide, who have exemplified leadership. Women like Lily Ledbetter, who courageously fought for pay equity for women, Lurleen Wallace, Alabama’s first and only female governor, and Lucy Baxley, Alabama’s first lieutenant governor.  I would not have the privilege of representing the Seventh Congressional District of Alabama if it were not for their sacrifices and the support of my constituents.”

 “We are very excited and happy to be honoring Representatives Terri Sewell (AL-7) and Martha Roby (AL-2) at today’s Impact luncheon”, said Dr. Lori Owens, Chair of the Alabama Women’s Commission. “We are confident in and very proud of the leadership they have shown in the state of Alabama. They have shown an ability to serve the people of Alabama and service is what the Alabama Women’s Commission embodies.”

Congresswoman Terri Sewell is the first African American woman elected to serve a full term as a member of the United States House of Representatives for Alabama. Congresswoman Sewell provided brief remarks about the opportunity to serve her district as a freshman member of Congress and participated in a question and answer session.

The event was sponsored by the Alabama Women’s Commission, a delegation composed of female state legislators and other members who are appointed by the Governor. The organization was established to create and support effective policy and legislation concerning women in Alabama.

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Contact:   Allison Abney; (202) 225-2665; Allison.abney@mail.house.gov