EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE UPON DELIVERY OF SPEECH, SCHEDULED FOR BETWEEN 7:00 - 9:00 P.M. EDT TODAY, JULY 26/

/ADVANCE/ BOSTON, July 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of a speech by Glenn Close at the Democratic National Convention on Monday, July 26, 2004:

Elizabeth Cady Stanton wrote, "Nature never repeats herself, and the possibilities of one human soul will never be found in another." She understood that every time someone is prevented from developing his or her unique talents and abilities, our entire community is weakened. Right now, there are nine women who are Democratic senators. Each of them is a pioneer who proves through her unwavering courage and tireless efforts that this great nation is strongest when all of its citizens have the opportunity to serve and to lead.

Let's take a moment to watch a tribute that celebrates their achievements and highlights the work that still needs to be done. Let's watch. The first woman to win election to the Senate earned her seat in 1932. She was a Democrat. Today, we continue to lead the fight to ensure that the Senate reflects the real America.

Please join me in welcoming onstage the nine female senators of the Democratic Party:

 * Senator Dianne Feinstein of California,
 * Senator Barbara Boxer of California,
 * Senator Patty Murray of Washington,
 * Senator Mary Landrieu of Louisiana,
 * Senator Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas,
 * Senator Debbie Stabenow of Michigan,
 * Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington,
 * Senator Hillary Clinton of New York,
 * and the pioneer who helped open the door these women walked through, the
   senior woman senator, the Honorable Barbara Mikulski of Maryland.

Source: Democratic National Convention Committee

CONTACT:  Peggy Wilhide of the Democratic National Convention Committee,
+1-617-366-3100

Web site:  http://www.dems2004.org/