Last week, I had the honor of giving a speech for Women’s History Month on the floor of the General Assembly. My speech honored Penny Severns. Penny was on the Decatur City Council, served as a State Senator, and ran for Lieutenant Governor on a ticket with Dawn Clark Netsch. Stories about Penny describe her acts of kindness, meeting people where they are and making everyone feel heard. This speech was personal for me, as one of my dear friends was Penny’s life partner. Penny passed away from breast cancer at age 46, and I can’t help but think of all she might have accomplished with more time. It was a great honor to commemorate this remarkable woman. Please watch the speech below: