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Hi John,
“Today, we recognize the centennial anniversary of the 19th Amendment, allowing women the right to vote. We thank the women whose tireless work paved the way for this right to have our voices heard and those who have continued the fight. But let’s be clear - this only granted white women the right to vote, and it took nearly half a century more for Black women and other women of color to be granted this right. Although a milestone for the feminist movement, this celebration is overshadowed by the injustices that Black women and women of color continue to face this day concerning their voting rights one century later.
Progress cannot be achieved if it uplifts only one race or experience. Our efforts must be intersectional and actively include the voices and concerns of marginalized communities. Indigenous, Black, Asian, Latinx, Trans, immigrant women, and women with disabilities have never received the same space to voice their political concerns, nor have they been afforded equal political opportunities as white women, and this cannot continue.
With fewer than 80 days until this year’s critical election, it’s imperative that we all recognize the power and importance of our vote. As elected officials attempt to suppress our voices—limiting mail-in voting during a global pandemic, closing down polling places, and purging registration rolls—let’s reckon with the 19th Amendment’s legacy and cast our votes for leaders that respect and protect all people’s rights. Remember to vote not only for yourself but also for those standing next to you, as that is how we will achieve the permanent change necessary to move our country forward.”—Ms. Foundation CEO and President Teresa C. Younger
Read the full statement here.
WOMEN + POWER: 100 YEARS AFTER THE 19TH AMENDMENT
Tonight and through the fall, Ms. Foundation for Women and Brooklyn Historical Society will peel back the layers of the women’s fight for equality with a multi-part virtual series on our collective journey. Women + Power will reflect on the triumphs and shortcomings of the passage of the 19th Amendment, with discussions on the relationship between gender, power, and the ongoing struggle for equality.
We are excited to share the first program below. Please register here. Stay tuned for more information about this ongoing series.
Women + Power: BODY POWER
Today, August 18, 7:30 pm ET
Free Admission
Our first conversation will explore reclaiming power and agency in women’s bodies of all types, sizes, colors, and experiences. Tressie McMillan Cottom, professor at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and author of Thick: And Other Essays, joins Jennifer Finney Boylan, activist and author of She's Not There: A Life in Two Genders, for a discussion that traverses race, reproductive justice, identity, and more. Activist, writer, and Director of Communications for the Ms. Foundation Raquel Willis moderates.
Register here.
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