America honors women like Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma. For 12 of the last 18 years, this extraordinary woman has been kept under house arrest by Burma's brutal military regime. Her only crime was to lead a political party that enjoys the overwhelming support of the Burmese people. During the long and lonely years of Daw Suu Kyi's imprisonment, the people of Burma have suffered with her. Aung San Suu Kyi has never wavered. Her courage and her writings have inspired millions, and in so doing, have put fear to the hearts of the leaders of the Burmese junta.
And that's why the regime has called a vote in May to ratify a dangerously flawed constitution -- one that bars Suu from ever leading her country. Aung San Suu Kyi has said to the American people: "Please use your liberty to promote ours." We're doing all we can, and we will continue to do so until the tide of freedom reaches the Burmese shores, and frees this good, strong woman.
Americans are inspired by the examples of these women, and the women we honor here today. We will continue to support their work, and the work of women across the world who stand up for the freedom of their people.
One of America's finest poets was a woman named Emma Lazarus, who is most famous for writing the verses carved into the base of the Statue of Liberty. Those verses describe the copper icon as "a mighty woman with a torch" a to light the way for all "yearning to breathe free." During Women's History Month, and at this celebration of International Women's Day, we are proud that the most recognizable symbol of America's love for freedom is "a mighty woman." And we reaffirm our commitment to light the way for all -- both women and men -- "yearning to be free."
And now, I'd like to ask Laura and Secretary Chao ad Secretary Peters and the Members of Congress who are here to join me on stage as I proudly sign Women's History Month proclamation.
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