Texas Senate Bill SR479

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Recognizing El Paso women veterans on the occasion of Women Veterans Day.

Impact

The bill's recognition is significant given the evolving role of women within the military. Following the enactment of the Women's Armed Services Integration Act, various legislative changes have progressively allowed women to serve more freely across different opportunities within the military, including combat roles. Thus, this resolution serves not just as a local honor for El Paso women veterans, but also as a broader acknowledgment of the progress made nationally in integrating women into the military.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 479 recognizes the contributions of women veterans from El Paso as part of the observance of Women Veterans Day, which occurs annually on June 12. This date was chosen to commemorate the signing of the Women's Armed Services Integration Act in 1948, which allowed women to serve as permanent members in the Armed Forces. The resolution emphasizes that Texas has the largest population of women veterans in the country and highlights their exemplary service and dedication to the military.

Contention

While the resolution is largely celebratory and uncontroversial in intent, it underscores a critical shift in societal and legislative attitudes towards women's roles in the military. The recognition of Women Veterans Day and the specific acknowledgment of women's contributions by the Texas Senate is representative of an ongoing commitment to address historical inequities and ensure that the contributions of women are honored and celebrated alongside their male counterparts.