Event will honor current and former lawmakers as part of National Women's History Month

JUNEAU-Former and current legislators as well as family members of those who passed will gather this week to pay tribute to Alaska Women Legislators all the way from Alaska’s days as a territory to the current 27^thAlaska State Legislature. The historical event will take place on Friday, March 16th at noon in the Terry Miller Building of the Alaska State Capitol.

Former Speaker of the House Gail Phillips, former State Senator Arliss Sturgulewski, former State Representative Katie Hurley, former Lieutenant Governor Fran Ulmer, and Governor Sean Parnell are just a few of the guests who are scheduled to attend the special celebration in honor of National Women’s History Month.

“For the first time in Alaska’s history, we are bringing together important women to commend their vital role in the leadership of this state,” said Senator Bettye Davis, D-Anchorage. “Numerous brave and courageous women helped shape the Alaska we know today. This celebration will recognize their accomplishments as well as the achievements of Alaska’s women leaders today.”

During Alaska’s territorial time, women served in the House from 1937-1939 and 1941-1959 and in the Senate from 1949-1959. Women have served in the House in each legislature since statehood and in the Senate in every legislature except the Second, Fourth, and Fifth.

The theme for National Women’s History Month 2012 isWomen’s Education – Women’s Empowerment. “I can’t think of a better group of women in Alaska to represent this theme,” said Senator Davis. “Each of these women legislators fought to gain the intellect and willpower needed for building Alaska into the great state it is today.”

WHO: Current and Former Women Legislators and/or Family Members
WHY: Celebration in honor of Alaska’s Women Leaders as part of National Women’s History Month

WHERE: Alaska State Capitol- Terry Miller Building

WHEN: Friday, March 16^th, 12:00p.m.

For more information, please contact Celeste Hodge in Senator Davis’ Office at (907) 465-3822.