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Women's History Month
March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions women have made to our communities, our state, and our nation. Here in Connecticut, countless women have shaped our history through leadership, innovation, advocacy, and perseverance.
While this month offers a special opportunity to reflect, their stories deserve to be honored all year long. From historic homes and museums to landmarks connected to groundbreaking achievements and social movements, our state is rich with places that preserve and share the legacy of women who helped shape Connecticut’s past and future.
Take some time to explore these meaningful sites and learn more about the women behind them. Click here to view a list of historic landmarks across Connecticut that are deeply connected to women’s history and the stories that continue to inspire generations today.
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| Women play a powerful role in shaping history through courage, leadership, and determination. From Harriet Tubman’s fight for freedom, to Rosa Parks’ stand for civil rights, to Dr. Mae Jemison breaking barriers in space, and Michelle Obama inspiring a new generation through leadership and service—these women remind us that progress is built by those willing to challenge injustice and open doors for others. Their legacy continues to inspire young girls and future leaders to dream big, stand strong, and make a difference in their communities. |
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Session Recap
This week at the Connecticut General Assembly, we continued working on legislation focused on strengthening our communities and supporting working families. The bills highlighted here address important areas including education, election security, public safety, health services, and protections for warehouse workers.
From improving school safety and expanding curriculum opportunities, to strengthening voter data protections, supporting firefighters battling cancer, and ensuring workers are treated fairly on the job, these measures are about building a stronger and more equitable Connecticut. I’m proud to be part of the work happening at the Capitol to move these issues forward and will continue advocating for policies that benefit New London and communities across our state.
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Generation Power CT Emergency Energy Assistance Program
The Generation Power CT (GPCT) Emergency Energy Assistance Program is open now through Tuesday, March 10. This program provides a one-time grant of up to $500 to help eligible Connecticut households with electric, gas, or fuel expenses.
Increasing energy costs are a challenge for many in the state, but through this program, GPCT has helped to provide families across Connecticut with secure access to heat, power, and water.
All GPCT energy programs are available to income-eligible households making up to 75% State Median Income (SMI) gross household income. Each income-eligible household that receives a GPCT Energy Assistance Award will receive up to $500 toward a future fuel delivery or toward a past-due utility bill. For the best chance of approval, and to make full use of this once-per-12-months grant. This is the last GPCT Energy Assistance Application Cycle this season.
To learn more about eligibility requirements and application materials, go to: gpct.org/gethelp/
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Upcoming Public Hearings
There are 17 public hearings scheduled next week - please see the graphic below for the schedule. Show up, stay informed, and have your voice heard!
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Free Tax Prep Assistance
With the tax deadline approaching on Wednesday, April 15, now is the time to take action if you haven’t filed yet. There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free tax help for low-to moderate-income (under $58,000) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Volunteers, sponsored by various organizations, receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. Visit Connecticut's 2-1-1 website and the Free Tax Help page for VITA assistance updates, or visit the IRS Site Locator.
AARP's Tax-Aide Program, a partnership between the AARP Foundation and the Internal Revenue Service, provides free tax counseling and preparation services to middle-and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to people age 60 and older. Many sites will e-file your federal and Connecticut returns at no cost to you. Visit the AARP Tax-Aide Site Locator to find a location near you.
The UConn Law School Tax Clinic is a pro bono (free) legal clinic that provides free legal help to low-income taxpayers with tax problems, either with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS). Lisa Perkins, Clinical Professor & Director, and law students will work on your case. The Tax Clinic also works with attorneys in Connecticut who volunteer to help low-income taxpayers pro bono. The Tax Clinic is independent and separate from the IRS and DRS. It is important to note, that the UCONN tax clinic is only able to assist individual taxpayers with Connecticut income tax problems. Contact Lisa Perkins at lisa.perkins@uconn.edu or 860-570-5165.
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Strengthening and Modernizing Our Elections
In last week's session, we passed legislation to strengthen and modernize Connecticut’s election laws. These reforms take important steps to protect the integrity, security, and transparency of our democratic process by:
- Safeguarding private voter data
- Requiring that ballots cast during early voting be securely stored in a voting tabulator
- Preventing individuals convicted of election-related crimes from serving as elections moderators
These updates reflect a balanced approach: expanding access to the ballot while maintaining strong safeguards to protect public trust.
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Tax Equity Priorities
Working families and underserved communities across Connecticut are doing their part — working hard, raising children, paying taxes — and still feeling squeezed.
This week, we met with the Tax Equity Caucus and held a press conference ahead of the Finance Committee hearing to advance key legislation that puts families first:
• Proposed S.B. 103 – Establishing a Refundable Child Tax Credit
• Proposed S.B. 104 – Establishing a Capital Gains Surcharge
• Proposed H.B. 5133 – Increasing the Highest Marginal Income Tax Rate
• Proposed H.B. 5187 – Adjusting the Fiscal Guardrails
These proposals would deliver direct relief to parents, ensure large investment profits are taxed fairly, and allow responsible investment in housing, education, and property tax relief.
This is about balance. It’s about shared responsibility. And it’s about building an economy that works for working people — not just those at the very top.
When working families are stable and underserved communities are strengthened, Connecticut is stronger.
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Six Triple Eight Event
This week we held a Commemorative Press Event honoring Connecticut members of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the “Six Triple Eight.” These courageous women served during World War II as the only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed overseas. Their mission was to clear a massive backlog of mail for American troops stationed in Europe, helping reconnect soldiers with their families and restoring morale during one of the most difficult periods in our nation’s history.
During the event, we recognized the Connecticut women who proudly served in the 6888th, including:
- MAJ (CPT) Mary Frances Kearney* – Bridgeport/Milford
- SGT Delores Mercedes Browne* – Bridgeport
- PFC Burnadine E. Fraser – New London
- PFC Audrey Elizabeth Harris – New Haven
- PFC Marian Sarah Jackson – Bloomfield
- PFC Elizabeth McNair – New Haven
- PFC Anna M. Tarryk – Norwichtown/Norwich
- PVT Mary J. Barlow* – Hartford
- PVT Margaret Beatrice Janer – Stamford
- PVT Margaret Mae Powell – New Haven
*Indicates members of the 6888th who were killed in Rouen, France while serving their country.
The Six Triple Eight was comprised of 855 women who worked tirelessly to sort through millions of undelivered letters and packages sent to American troops. Their work was critical to maintaining the morale of soldiers serving far from home. Their motto said it best: “No Mail, No Morale.”
Their service represents courage, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence during a time when they were not only fighting for their country’s success in war, but also challenging barriers of race and gender. Today we honor their legacy and ensure their contributions are never forgotten.
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Borinqueneers License Plate
I am incredibly proud to see the Borinqueneers license plate become a reality here in Connecticut.
Last year, I submitted a legislative bill to help move this effort forward because honoring the 65th Infantry Regiment is long overdue. The Borinqueneers served with courage and distinction in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. They fought for a nation that did not always fully recognize their sacrifice, yet they wore the uniform with pride and honor.
This license plate is more than a design on a vehicle. It is a public acknowledgment of bravery, resilience, and the lasting contributions of Puerto Rican soldiers to our nation’s freedom. It ensures their legacy will be visible on roads across our state and remembered by future generations.
I am grateful to the Connecticut DMV, my fellow legislators, and the many advocates and veterans who worked tirelessly to help make this happen. Seeing this come to fruition is a powerful reminder that when we recognize the service of those who defended our country, we strengthen our entire community.
To order the Borinqueneers specialty plate or other custom plates, visit:
Get special and vanity DMV plates: custom license plates | CT.gov
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St. Patrick's Day Parade InfoI’m proud to share that Valerie Tamano has been named the 2026 St. Patrick's Day Parade New London Grand Marshal.Valerie’s commitment to our community, her leadership, and the pride she carries for New London make her a wonderful choice to lead this year’s celebration. This honor is well deserved.
Let’s show up, celebrate together, and make this another great year for New London.
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Championship Energy in New London!
Congratulations to the New London High School Girls Basketball team on winning the 2026 ECC Division I Tournament Championship! The Whalers battled, stayed composed, and secured a hard-fought 47-41 victory at Mohegan Sun Arena. Amazing game.
A special shoutout to Jaidelis Rivera for a standout performance — dropping 19 points and earning Tournament MVP honors! Great leadership, great Whaler pride.
Four championships in the last five years — this program continues to set the standard. You’ve made our city proud!
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Oven-On Bakery Visit
"Shout It Out".... I had the opportunity to stop by Oven-On Bakery on Jefferson Avenue. They’ve been excitingly busy since the great renovations, this is exactly the kind of small business that makes New London special.
Located at 227 Jefferson Ave, this local favorite brings Latin American flavor and hospitality right into the heart of our community. From fresh pastries and sweet treats to savory options like tacos, burritos, and Cuban sandwiches, there’s something on the menu for everyone.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite to go or sitting down to enjoy a meal, the atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and full of pride. If you haven’t stopped by yet, I encourage you to check them out and support local. |
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If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me at my Capitol office at 860-240-8512 or email me at Anthony.Nolan@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "Like" my official Facebook page and follow me on Twitter for news and legislative updates.
Sincerely,
Anthony Nolan
State Representative |
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