Louisiana Democratic Party Chair Karen Carter Peterson today released the following statement on the passing of the first woman from Louisiana elected to the U.S. House, Congresswoman and Ambassador Lindy Boggs.
"Our hearts are heavy in Louisiana today as we learn that Ms. Lindy is at long last reunited with her beloved husband, Congressman Hale Boggs. His untimely death began the second chapter of Lindy's life, and out of that tragedy, she took on the mantle of public service with uncommon grace. Her self-effacing charm came from a lesson learned from her grandmother -- that one could accomplish anything by simply allowing others to take the credit.
"A pioneer in the fight for civil rights, Lindy also championed the cause of economic equality for women -- a fight we carry on today. Every woman that has a credit card in her wallet or a mortgage for her home can thank Lindy Boggs for her legislative skill in ensuring protections for gender and marital status were included in the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. As we continue to push for legislation that guarantees women equal pay for equal work, we know that Lindy helped to pave the road we walk on.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Ms. Roberts, Mr. Boggs and the rest of Ms. Lindy's family as they mourn their dear mother, grandmother and great-grandmother."