Women's Equality Day: Celebrating Progress, Inspiring Change

Modern Celebrations and Observances

• Women’s Equality Day annual event observed on August 26th
• Organizations, libraries, and workplaces participate in events
• 1970 saw the largest gender-equality protest in U.S. history
• National Organization for Women (NOW) called for a "strike for equality"
• Over 100,000 women demonstrated in 90 major cities
• New York City march drew 50,000 participants

History and Significance

• Commemorates the ratification of the 19th Amendment on August 26, 1920
• Grants women the right to vote in the United States
• Officially recognized by Congress in 1971
• Celebrates women's advancements towards equality
• Reminder of ongoing struggles for gender parity

The Suffrage Movement and Its Impact

• Suffrage Movement began in the early 19th century
• Women faced property inheritance restrictions and wage disparities
• Movement gained momentum in the early 1900s
• Women's contributions during World War I highlighted their importance
• Harry T. Burn's deciding vote in Tennessee legislature
• 19th Amendment required ratification by 36 states

Continuing Efforts and Ways to Celebrate

• Highlights ongoing challenges: wage gap, workplace discrimination
• Educate yourself and others about women's rights history
• Support women-owned businesses
• Volunteer with organizations promoting gender equality
• Advocate for policies advancing women's rights
• Thank influential women in your life
• Register to vote to honor the suffragists' sacrifices
• NGOs organize campaigns, workshops, and events