Hoyer Statement on the Passing of Former Senator Birch Bayh
“I was saddened to learn of the passing of former Senator Birch Bayh, who was a champion for equality. During his eighteen years in the United States Senate and for the remainder of his life, Senator Bayh worked to expand equal access for women in education, employment, athletics, and every facet of participation in society. A chief author of Title IX and the Equal Rights Amendment, he will be remembered for his determination to see an end to discrimination based on sex in this country. Senator Bayh will also be remembered for his love of our Constitution – and his many efforts to change it in order to reflect the challenges of our day. Because of his leadership, those who are old enough to serve in our military also have a voice in government as voters. Because of his forethought, the Constitution now provides a mechanism for the orderly succession to the presidency and vice presidency.
“Senator Bayh was a man of integrity and intellect, leadership and vision. I join in extending my condolences to his wife Kitty, to my friend Senator Evan Bayh, and to the entire Bayh family – as well as the people of Indiana he served so ably.”