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.

Did you know that Sunday is Women’s Equality Day? On August 26, 1920, the United States passed the 19^th Amendment allowing women the right to vote. It’s hard to believe that less than 100 years ago, women were not able to enjoy many of the same rights as their male counterparts. But although the amendment was passed that year, the fight for women’s rights began nearly an entire century prior.

In the late 1840s and early 1850s, women began protesting in public. They started group meetings in places like Seneca Falls, New York. Many influential women like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton were active in the fight against slavery and their efforts would help get them included in the 14^th and 15^th Amendment, but they were sadly mistaken.

The women reorganized themselves as the National Woman Suffrage Association in 1869. They started a newspaper called “The Revolution” and began protesting in silent sentinels. Meanwhile local groups were popping up at the state level. Finally, after years of struggle and hardship, the United States Congress endorsed the proposed 19^th Amendment.

To commemorate this historic event, let’s celebrate by honoring the inspiring women in our lives. Here are a few ideas on how to participate in Women’s Equality Day:

1. Write a thank you letter to a woman you admire

   This one is self-explanatory but consider writing a note to an influential woman in your life. The letter doesn’t need to be long, just a few words of gratitude and appreciation can go a long way.

2. Voice your opinion on issues and organizations that you care about

   There’s no doubt that times have certainly changed over the past 200 years but follow in the footsteps of Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton by taking a stance on an issue close to your heart. With the recent birth of social media, we all have the opportunity to talk about topics that matter. Use social media to help enact change. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind, but please remember to mindful of other opinions.

3. Get informed on local and state-level elections

   Have you ever gotten to the poll booth and felt like you didn’t recognize any names on the ballot? Of course, we’ve all been there, but it’s never too late to make a change. This November marks the 2018 midterm elections. Spend some time preparing for the polls by educating yourself on the candidates and the issues important to you. Your future self will thank you!

4. Mentor a young girl

   Women may have made long strides in the past two centuries, but there is still a wide road ahead. Think about becoming a positive influence in the life of a young girl. Your experience and support could mean all of the difference in the world.

How do you plan to celebrate women’s rights? Tell us in the comments below.

Happy Women’s Equality Day from Lions Pride!