On August 26, 1920, the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was certified. This amendment legally banned the U.S. from denying citizens the right to vote on the basis of sex in any and all states and officially granted women the right to vote after decades of effort from the women’s suffrage movement. While this was far from a complete victory — voting discrimination based on race and disability remained fully legal, and it took several more decades of activism before all American women would gain the right to a free and fair vote — the anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment is still celebrated today as a milestone for women’s rights.
Women’s Equality Day takes place annually on August 26, recognizing and honoring not just the victories of the past, but the hard work and bravery of the activists fighting to protect women’s rights in the U.S. and ensure that women worldwide are free to exercise their basic human rights. To avoid confusion: International Women’s Day is a separate holiday, observed annually on March 8, celebrating the historical significance and achievements of women around the world.
Because it is not a federal holiday, expect schools (if in session), businesses, transportation and government buildings to be operating on normal hours. Check around your area for local events: museums, libraries, colleges, and other community institutions may hold educational conferences, celebrations, and more commemorating Women’s Equality Day.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us anytime at info@gravityintprog.com. Stay safe and healthy!
