Bella
Savitsky Abzug was a fiery peace and civil rights activist and feminist who became
the first Jewish Congresswoman (1971-1976). Born as Bella Savistky in the Bronx
to Russian Jewish immigrant parents, Bella balanced running her own practice as
a lawyer defending causes she was passionate about, while raising two children.
She was one of the few lawyers bold enough to defend writers accused of un-American
activities during the McCarthy era, and was actively involved in the peace, civil
rights and women's movements. As a member of Congress representing New York, she
advocated for consumer rights, environmental protection, welfare rights, full
employment and introduced legislation to end the Vietnam War. After serving in
congress, she remained active in her work for a better world. As co-founder of
WEDO (Women's Environment and Development Organization), which works to empower
women around the world, she became an active and influential leader in the NGO
(non-governmental organization) community working with the United Nations to promote
women's rights.
