South Carolina Senator Katrina Shealy proudly displayed the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, given to the five women senators who blocked a near-total ban on abortions in the state. She stood up for women, children, and her state, despite knowing that her stance could cost her re-election. The award, valued at $35,000-$40,000, is now seeking a new home outside the Statehouse due to its controversial nature.
Shealy’s loss in the primary runoff, along with two other Republican women senators, was attributed to their stance on abortion as well as attack ads portraying them as ‘squishy and out of touch’. Despite her defeat, Shealy leaves behind a legacy of legislative successes, particularly in child protection and oversight of state agencies.
The departure of these female senators highlights the need for diverse perspectives in the South Carolina Senate, as the state struggles with a lack of female representation in its legislature. As the lone Republican woman in the chamber for many years, Shealy’s absence, along with that of her colleagues, will be felt in the upcoming session.
Despite her loss, Shealy remains committed to serving her community through her nonprofit organization and plans to address Alzheimer’s, a cause close to her heart. As she bids farewell to the Senate, she challenges her colleagues to step up and continue the work she has done over the past 12 years. The legacy of the “sister senators” and their fight for women’s rights and children’s welfare will endure, even as they exit the political stage.
Source
Photo credit 19thnews.org