First lady Jill Biden honors ‘women of courage’ at White House

WASHINGTON — First lady Jill Biden hosted a ceremony at the White House on Monday for “courageous women” who have battled political repression, sexual violence, economic hardship and gender discrimination around the world.

“You have spoken out for yourselves and for others despite fear and risk, and against those who tried to take your vote,” Biden said.

She added: “Change never happens on its own. There is strength in this community of women.”

Twelve women received the awards, which were presented by the U.S. Department of State. It was the 18th year that the awards were presented. The winners included a lawyer from Myanmar, a former political prisoner from Belarus, a disability rights advocate from Afghanistan and a teacher from Ecuador.

One of the winners, Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello, was unable to attend because she was not allowed to leave her home country of Cuba. She has faced detention and intimidation during her decades of advocacy for human rights and political freedom.

“Marta may not be able to be with us in person today, but we want her to know that we are all with her every day,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said.

Nine women from Nicaragua were also honored with the Madeleine Albright Honorary Group Award, named for the first female U.S. Secretary of State. The women were among 222 political prisoners released a year ago who now live in the US