Dearborn City Council President Pro Tem Leslie Herrick (second from left) acknowledges Women’s History Month by recognizing local women who have served in city government, as Councilmembers Ken Paris (left), Michael Sareini, Kamal Alsawafy and Robert Abraham listen.
By SUE SUCHYTA
Times-Herald Newspapers
DEARBORN – City Council President Pro Tem Leslie Herrick and the City Council acknowledged Women’s History Month during the March 18 council meeting by recognizing local female political leaders.
Herrick also acknowledged the suffragettes who fought for women to have the right to vote.
“I’d like to thank the women who paved the way for myself and the others who served with me on council,” she said.
Herrick noted that on a wall outside of the council chambers are photographs of the previous 33 Dearborn City Councils.
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She said the women who have served on the council, in addition to herself, are: Erin Byrnes, Susan Dabaja, Suzanne Sareini, Nancy Hubbard, Susan Hubbard, Maureen Keane Doran, Joyce Olkowski, Marge Powell, Lucille McCollough and Marguerite Johnson.
“I thank all of them for taking that greatest move, as well as the family members and friends that supported them in running for office,” Herrick said. “You can’t do it alone; you do it with the support of your family and friends who encourage you.”
She said when growing up, many girls aren’t encouraged to pursue leadership roles, which is why they need encouragement to take the first step.
“Once they receive the opportunity, they certainly shine,” Herrick said.