WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release) – Congresswoman Susan Davis (D-San Diego) led a California congressional delegation letter in support of having a statue of astronaut and educator Sally Ride represent California in the U.S. Capitol. The letter to Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins, who is leading the legislative effort in the Assembly, urges the California legislature to approve the resolution to commission a statue of Ride
“Sally Ride personifies the California and American spirits of exploration and discovery,” said Rep. Davis. “Sally was a pioneer of space exploration and she was a tireless advocate in promoting STEM education, especially for girls. Having her presence grace the halls of the Congress would be a fitting tribute and an inspiration to the many Americans who visit the Capitol everyday.”
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Keeping up with Jewish public officials: Susan Davis
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A long-time San Diego resident, Ride was the first American woman in space and later taught as a professor of physics at the University of California, San Diego. With her partner Tam O’Shaughnessy, she co-founded Sally Ride Science, which develops educational programs to inspire middle and high school students, particularly girls, about science.
Since 1864, each state has been allowed to display two statues in the U.S. Capitol. State Senator Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) is the author of a resolution in the state Senate to replace Father Junípero Serra, whose statue was added in 1931, with a statue of Ride. In 2009, a statue of Ronald Reagan replaced one of Thomas Starr King, which was also donated in 1931.
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Articles dealing with Jewish women in Congress are sponsored by Laura Galinson in memory of her father, Murray Galinson.
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Preceding provided by Congresswoman Susan Davis