1. United States
2. S.D.
3. Letter

I am a South Dakota constituent writing to ask you to speak publicly in response to recent comments and behavior involving former President Trump and members of the U.S. men’s hockey team that appeared to mock or diminish the accomplishments of the U.S. women’s hockey team. Regardless of political affiliation, this moment matters — especially to young women and girls in South Dakota who are watching closely. Our daughters, granddaughters, students, and athletes deserve to see New!Click to editleaders affirm that their hard work, excellence, and achievements are worthy of respect. When public figures laugh at or belittle women’s success, it sends a damaging message that effort and accomplishment are conditional on gender. South Dakota has a strong tradition of girls and women excelling in athletics, academics, agriculture, and leadership. Many young women here grow up in communities that value grit, fairness, and personal responsibility. They need to hear from elected officials that those values apply equally to them. I am not asking for partisan escalation. I am asking for leadership. A clear, public statement affirming respect for women’s achievements — and rejecting mockery or dismissiveness toward them — would go a long way toward showing young women that their leaders see them, value them, and expect better from those in positions of influence. Silence in moments like this can feel like acceptance. Speaking out, even briefly, would demonstrate integrity and a commitment to the next generation of South Dakotans.