Frankel, Kamlager-Dove Introduce Esther Coopersmith Award Act to Honor Champions of Women, Peace, and Security

Frankel, Kamlager-Dove Introduce Esther Coopersmith Award Act to Honor Champions of Women, Peace, and Security

Today, Representatives Lois Frankel (FL-22), co-chair of the Women, Peace, and Security Caucus, and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-27) introduced the Esther Coopersmith Award Act, legislation to create a State Department award honoring public servants who advance Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) around the world.

Named for Esther Coopersmith - a trailblazing diplomat, philanthropist, and lifelong champion of women's leadership - the award would recognize members of the Civil and Foreign Service whose work strengthens peace, security, and stability by elevating the role of women in preventing conflict, resolving crises, and rebuilding communities.

"Women are the backbone of families and communities - and when they have a voice in decisions about peace and security, the world is safer and stronger," said Rep. Frankel, "Esther Coopersmith spent her life bringing people together and opening doors for women leaders. This award honors her remarkable legacy and the dedicated diplomats and public servants carrying that mission forward."

"Throughout her remarkable career as a diplomat, host, and philanthropist, Esther Coopersmith not only blazed a trail for herself, but brought countless other women to the table too," said Rep. Kamlager-Dove. "At a time when world leaders too often choose force over diplomacy, Esther's legacy reminds us of the importance of human connection and the inclusion of women when tackling global issues. I'm proud to co-lead this legislation that both honors Esther's life's work and reaffirms the U.S.'s commitment to Women, Peace, and Security."

Esther Coopersmith dedicated more than 70 years to diplomacy, public service, and building bridges across cultures and communities. She served on the U.S. delegation to the United Nations (UN) under President Jimmy Carter, was appointed by President Ronald Reagan as an advisor to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, became only the second woman to receive the UN Peace Medal, and was named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. Known for bringing people together across political and international divides, Mrs. Coopersmith regularly convened women leaders, Members of Congress, diplomats, and advocates to promote cooperation, peace, and opportunity.

The Esther Coopersmith Award Act builds on bipartisan efforts to recognize the important role women play in creating lasting peace and advancing U.S. security interests.

Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

For full text of the bill, click here.