Our constitution is a remarkable document that serves as a pillar for our country’s freedom and democracy. However, the document itself is not without its flaws, as is evident by the 27 amendments that have since followed since it was written in 1787. One of those amendments, the 19th amendment, was passed by Congress on June 4, 1919 and ratified on August 18, 1920 –finally giving women the right to vote. Well, some women. Because until the Voting Rights Act was passed in 1965, women of color were still largely prohibited from voting in many states.
Just seeing the timeline and facts of these events shows us how incredibly flawed, complicated, and exclusive women’s suffrage proved to be. Like our Constitution, this movement was vital to our country’s evolution, but it was an inadequate moment in our history by excluding so many. As an organization that develops women, all women, it is incumbent upon us as civic leaders to acknowledge this fact and learn about the different angles of the story of suffrage in the United States.
It is undeniable that our communities become a better place when they are more diverse and inclusive. To move the world in that direction, we must first acknowledge the foundation upon which we stand and look ahead to where we want to be. Because of this, the Junior League has is hosting a centennial celebration of the 19th amendment called “When We All Vote”. This event is meant to discover how the 19th amendment in 1920 is part of a much larger and longer story about the pursuit of voting rights, a struggle that is both unfinished and ongoing. Please join us for the virtual event below celebrating a decades-long effort about using the power of your voice and envisioning a more just future:
Save the Date!
Announcing a Special Event August 18th Honoring the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment. Mark your calendars to join us on Tuesday, August 18th at 6:30 pm CT/7:30 pm ET for “Why the Women’s Vote Matters,” a powerful panel conversation —exclusively for Junior League Members—exploring the complicated history of the 19th Amendment.
Our Panelists are:
Stephanie Young, Managing Director, When We All Vote
We will be joined by Grammy® and Golden Globe® Nominated Actress, Singer and Songwriter Mandy Moore to get you revved up and excited! RSVP here: https://www.ajli.org/?nd=workshop_detail&workshop_id=240
Junior League of Minneapolis 