nita

Nita Lowey, a Long Island native, dedicated public servant, and the first woman to lead the powerful House Appropriations Committee, died on October 17, 2019. Lowey was a trailblazer in New York and national politics, having devoted her life to serving the people and fighting for their interests. As we remember and honor Lowey’s impactful legacy, it is important to reflect on her contributions and the mark she left on American politics.

Born on July 5, 1937, Nita Melnikoff grew up in the Bronx, New York. She graduated from the Bronx High School of Science and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Massachusetts. Lowey’s political journey began in the 1970s when she was elected as a councilwoman in the town of Harrison, New York. Her unwavering dedication and passion for public service soon propelled her to higher offices.

In 1988, Nita Lowey successfully ran for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York’s 20th congressional district. Throughout her 31-year tenure in Congress, she focused on a wide range of issues, including women’s rights, healthcare, education, and foreign affairs. Lowey’s commitment to championing policies that improved the lives of her constituents and Americans across the country made her a respected and influential figure on Capitol Hill.

One of Nita Lowey’s most remarkable achievements was becoming the first woman to chair the powerful House Appropriations Committee in 2019. In this leadership role, she wielded significant influence over the allocation of federal funds, shaping crucial aspects of government spending and policy. Lowey prioritized investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and national security, striving to ensure that taxpayer dollars were utilized effectively and efficiently to benefit the American people.

Beyond her legislative accomplishments, Nita Lowey was known for her unwavering support for Israel and her efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship. She worked tirelessly to promote peace in the Middle East and was a vocal advocate for foreign aid that bolstered Israel’s security and advanced diplomatic endeavors in the region. Lowey’s commitment to fostering strong ties between the United States and Israel earned her bipartisan respect and recognition as a leading voice on international affairs.

Nita Lowey’s impact extended beyond her policy work, as she was a mentor and role model for countless aspiring leaders, particularly women entering the political arena. Throughout her career,