The Honorable Condoleeza Ricel
Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State
2201 C Street, N.W., 7th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20520
USA

Fax: 202-261-8577
E-mail : Secretary@state.gov

[Date]

Dear Secretary Rice:

I am writing to urge your strong support for ratification by the United States of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). Women's rights are in jeopardy in this country and throughout the world, and need CEDAW's protections. Please support CEDAW and urge Senators to vote in favor of ratification.

CEDAW has already helped to improve conditions for women in countries that have ratified it. It is the most comprehensive U.N. treaty aimed at ensuring women's rights in education, family life, health care, employment, politics, economics, and employment around the world. It is imperative that the United States takes a strong stance in favor of this treaty in order to ensure that basic rights are respected for women around the world.

I ask that you make women's rights a priority on your agenda by supporting the ratification of CEDAW and, thus, equality for women. Without your help, the epidemic of violence and discrimination against women and girls will continue to remain a worldwide crisis.

Sincerely,

[Your name]
[Your address]