Week of 3/8: International Women’s Day

Friends,

Today we celebrate International Women's Day. On this day, we recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The theme this year – “Give to Gain” – emphasizes the beliefs that generosity and collaboration multiply opportunity and contribute to women’s advancement. I’d like to share some of the inspiring work being done by Delaware’s women that strengthen our communities.

This week, I attended the Do More 24 event, where I met many women who live out the idea of “Give to Gain” in service to their communities. I Am My Sister’s Keeper is a Wilmington nonprofit that provides programming and guidance to young women. They run the MSK Community Center in Wilmington, which is so important; we know that these centers provide safety to children and enable them to do better in school. I also met women with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Zeta Omega chapter. Their collaboration with the Pearls of Hope Foundation, Inc., advances education among diverse communities and provides important family support.

When I think of “Give to Gain,” I can’t help but think of former State Senator Karen Peterson, from Delaware’s 9th Senate District. On May 7th, 2013, the 147th General Assembly was debating House Bill 75, which would legalize gay marriage in Delaware. Senator Peterson came out as lesbian during that debate, showing immense courage that caught national attention and secured passage of the bill. She made Delaware a safer place for our LGBT community, and shows us what it means to stand on principle.

I also think of the women I work with at the hospital, who are the living embodiment of “Give to Gain.” They are some of the best social workers and nurses in Delaware. They advocate for you against insurance companies. They secure resources for you that are becoming harder to find. They make sure you don’t get lost in the system. My healthcare policy positions are based on our shared advocacy over the years. Thank you to Jeni, Jen, Soriya, Nataleen, and all the others not pictured.

Finally, I want to mention the women in medicine who mentored me during my training. One of those mentors is Dr. Madeleine Becker. She’s the past president of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and an internationally renowned consultation and integrative health psychiatrist. She was also my fellowship director and helped me find my voice as a psychiatrist, channeling my spirit for advocacy into something meaningful.

Women are at the forefront in fighting for healthy communities, and we will continue to fight for the advancement of all women. We will close the wage gap. We will secure reproductive freedom in Delaware’s Constitution. We will fund Planned Parenthood. We will recognize and combat gender stereotypes and sexism. We will empower women economically, socially, and culturally. And I’ll be fighting with you, every step of the way.

Until next time,

Dr. Rob Bahnsen

Candidate for State Representative, District 12