On Women’s Equality Day and Forward Movement

On Aug. 26 our country celebrated the 98th Anniversary of Women’s Equality Day. On that day 98 years ago, the 19th Amendment was adopted, establishing that “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.” On that day 98 years ago, the battle for equality was just getting started.

Today, we have more women running for political office than ever before, and they’re winning. Women make up 51 percent of the population, yet hold only 20 percent of elected offices. As the number of female-identified candidates grows, it’s important to remind ourselves of the enormous efforts that have been, and continue to be, made on behalf of all women.

We remember the women who spurred this movement, with the odds stacked against them, and work to honor their legacy. We watch as women nationwide step up to run for elected office, doing what we can to support them and encourage them. We work to empower our daughters, our sisters, our friends, our neighbors to be brave as they emerge as our next generation of leaders, and remind them that they can and will continue to change our world.

We march, we debate, we cheer, we vote, we learn and we listen.

Ninety-eight years ago, women were given a life-changing opportunity. Today, we work every day to ensure all women everywhere are provided with equal opportunity under the law, that they work in environments free from discrimination or harassment and that they are treated fairly.

Forward movement is usually slow, it’s rarely easy, but it’s always necessary. In the pursuit of a freer, safer, more equitable world, we must press on together.