The League of Women Voters of Hawaii County recognizes Women’s Equality Day on Aug. 26 in celebration of the advancements that have been made toward achieving full political, economic, and social equality. The date commemorates the adoption of the 19th Amendment, after an almost 80 year struggle, which granted voting rights for women.
Hawaii did not become a state until 1959 so it could not vote for or against the 19th Amendment, but the territory declared its support for ratification of the 19th Amendment on Nov. 12, 1920. Hawaii’s ratification in 1920 of the voting right for women was simply an endorsement of practices dating back to the Hawaiian Kingdom when women voted and held governing power in the 19th century, long before the United States.
This year after decades dedicated to this goal, the League of Women Voters (LWV) is celebrating the Centennial Year of the 19th Amendment along with the long running success of their organization.
“The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” This is in the U.S. Constitution.
It is now time to celebrate and build on the heritage of the women’s suffrage movement. Voter Suppression is real in 2020. All Americans should become involved in ensuring failure of attempts to deprive it’s citizens their right to vote safely.
“We take this day to reflect on how far we have come and to look towards the future to see what steps we can take to ensure all women can fulfill their highest potential.”
The LWV Hawaii County salutes 100 years of women’s rights and promoting people’s right to vote.
Women’s Equality Day is a celebration of trailblazers, visionaries, and suffragists who have worked towards equal rights for all.
The league was founded in 1920, just months before the 19th Amendment was adopted.
“Of course, there is still work for us to do, but we should celebrate the accomplishments of the activists and ordinary people who wanted to transform our society for the better.”
The league’s purpose then and now, is to help all people carry out their responsibilities as voters.
The league promotes democracy and justice, inclusion of every group of citizens, and advocates for the rights of Americans to live a life that is full and free.
The LWV is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy.
Rosemarie Muller is president of the League of Women Voters of Hawaii County.
