Statement from Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald on International Women’s Day

ALBANY, N.Y. (March 8, 2024) – "On this International Women's Day, the New York State Department of Health wishes to acknowledge and celebrate all individuals who identify as women and reaffirm our commitment to eliminating health disparities and addressing social determinants of health that prevent women from living their healthiest lives.

As the month of March is Women's History Month, we recognize the women that have paved the way including New Yorkers like Shirley Chisholm, Margaret Sanger, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Sojourner Truth – all of whom made tremendous contributions to women's well-being and the pursuit of justice.

Under the leadership of Governor Hochul, our commitment is not only to reproductive and maternal health, but also expanded access to cancer screenings and treatment, harm reduction and opioid use treatment, sexual violence prevention, and gender affirming health.

March is also Gender Equality Month. The Department recognizes that gender is a spectrum and holds space for all genders and identities. Gender equality is only possible when all identities are included and respected.

As the late U.S. Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm said, 'If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.'

We acknowledge the individuals who identify as a woman and who do the work of investing in women that accelerate our progress towards eliminating health disparities. This would not be possible without them."