We all know the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. When that workplace happens to be where the laws shaping the future of the United States are made, it's not just important - it's vital. We've still got a long way to go for gender parity, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't celebrate our victories.
Check out 10 of our favorite "famous firsts" for women and diversity in the 116th Congress.
1. First (Two!) Native American Congresswomen
Deb Haaland (D - NM) & Sharice Davids (D - KS)
2. First LGBTQ Mom
Angie Craig (D-MN)
3. Youngest Woman Elected to the House (& Only Viral Dancing Sensation)
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D- NY)
4. First (Two!) Muslim Congresswomen
Rashaid Tlaib (D-MI) and Ilhan Omar (D-MN)
5. Most Women of Color Ever (47) in Congress
6. First (Two) Latina Congresswomen Representing Texas
Veronica Escobar (D-TX) and Sylvia Garcia (D-TX)
7. Youngest Black Woman Elected to Congress
Lauren Underwood (D-IL)
8. First Congressperson Born in South America
Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL)
9. First African Refugee & First To Wear A Hijab
Ilhan Omar (D - MN)
10. Most First-Time Congresswomen (42) and Most Women EVER in Congress (127)
Baby steps. Here's to even better numbers in the 117th Congress.
