Are You Proud, First Mexican American Woman, Texas Senate, Also Disgusted, Texas state Sen. Judith Zaffirini

“People would ask me, ‘Are you proud to be the first Mexican American woman elected to the Texas Senate?’ I would say, ‘Well, yes, but I’m also disgusted. I’m disgusted because it took so long.’ … In the entire history of the state of Texas, only 24 women have served in the Texas Senate – only 24, including the eight who serve today. Twenty-four women have served with 952 men during 88 legislative sessions … so it’s bittersweet. You celebrate because you did it, but you’re sad and disappointed tht it took so long.” - Texas state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, now the first woman dean of the Texas Senate. Found in Ms. Magazine, Spring 2024, page 6.