Women in Black: Congressional Democrats Make Powerful Statement for #MeToo Movement
Representatives including Jackie Spier (D-CA) and Lois Frankel (D-FL), who orchestrated the #SOTUBlackout, as well as Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and other members of the Democratic Working Women's Group gathered early Tuesday to pose for photos in their black pantsuits and skirt suits to show support for the victims of sexual misconduct - including the 19 women who have accused President Donald Trump himself of sexual harassment. The movement has represented a larger shift in power dynamics across industries, as advocates rally against outdated workplace policies.
Women wearing black tonight include U.S. Rep Lois Frankel, who tweeted on January 9: "By wearing black to this year's #SOTU, the [House Democratic Women] are standing in solidarity with women across our nation to say: on sexual harassment in the workplace".
"We wear black to send the message that we support the right of everyone to work and live in an environment where they feel safe and are safe", wrote Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) on Twitter.
Republican Rep. Susan Brooks of IN will be wearing a black dress to honor victims of sexual abuse paired with a red jacket to honor the men and women who serve IN the military.
Democratic House members plan to wear black in honor of the #metoo movement combatting sexual harassment.
House minority leader Nancy Pelosi tweeted that the nation must "recognize and cherish the courageous people who stand up to demand their stories be heard".
Trump's recent use of derogatory comments about Haiti and African nations has sparked controversy and prompted many lawmakers to not attend this year's annual address.
There are 22 House Republican women, compared with over 60 women in the House Democratic caucus.
A few Republicans are using their plus-ones as pointed nods against past Trump policies, such as Representative Carlos Curbelo (R-Fla.) bringing DREAMer Adrian Escarate and Bill Nye the Science Guy as a guest for Republican Representative Jim Bridenstine (R-Okla.), who previously denied climate change until November.