As a son, husband, and father of a daughter, I've spent my whole life surrounded by strong, intelligent, and hardworking women. My wife Janine is a full time physician who has made tremendous contributions to our community. My daughter Sydra is now pursuing her college education. I feel blessed to have them in my life and to see them doing such tremendous things as we all support each other as a family. They are examples of how women throughout Sacramento County, and throughout our nation, are pursuing their dreams through determination and talent.

Since the first women's rights convention in Seneca Falls in 1848, we have certainly made great progress towards women's equality. At the same time, we still have so much more to do. In the workplace, far too many women still face gender discrimination and are paid less than men for doing the same job. Alarmingly, some still blame the victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, instead of offering support and hope to women who need it as we prosecute the abusers. Washington politicians and others keep trying to interfere in personal health decisions that should be between a woman and her doctor.

As a father, I want my daughter to grow up in a country where her gender is not a barrier to her success.