With great respect and sadness, the National Organization for Women says goodbye to feminist pioneer Bella Abzug.  "Bella influenced our movement in countless ways. Her contributions toward changing the world made a difference for millions of women," said NOW President Patricia Ireland.

As co-founder of  the National Women's Political Caucus, Abzug helped bring more women into politics.  Her leadership encouraged many women to run for political office; her activism helped them win.  As a Member of Congress herself, she was not afraid to take on the tough issues, including the Equal Rights Amendment, child care and reproductive rights.

"She had a very broad vision of equality and justice," Ireland said.  She cited Abzug's work on behalf of the environment and women's health as part of that vision.  "The organization she founded makes that vital link between women's oppression and environmental destruction."  Abzug co-founded the Women's Environment and Development Organization in 1990.

Abzug's commitment to equality was global.  She was a major leader at United Nations conferences over the past twenty years, including the Fourth World Conference for Women in Beijing.  Out of that conference, Abzug developed the "Contract with the World's Women," a global campaign to implement the UN Platform for Action,  and she worked tirelessly for its adoption.

"We owe a lot of our progress to Bella's relentless traveling, writing, organizing -- and agitating -- on behalf of women," Ireland said.

"Whatever the issue, we could depend on Bella to present the feminist argument articulately, clearly -- and with her unique sense of humor.  She pulled no punches," Ireland said.  "Although we will miss her dearly, she leaves a wonderful legacy for those of us who continue the struggle for equality."

 Link to this release at http://www.now.org/press/03-98/03-31-98.html