Progress And Inclusion: The Lasting Impact Of Women's Equality Day
Every year on August 26th, the world celebrates Women's Equality Day, marking the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and the progress toward achieving it. Understanding the history behind women's equality and the steps that can still be taken can be beneficial regardless of gender, age, or background.
A history of Women's Equality Day
Women's Equality Day has its roots in the women’s suffrage movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when women fought for the right to vote. The start of the Women's Movement can be traced back to the Women's Rights Convention in Seneca Falls, NY in 1848, a pivotal event that ignited the fight for women's suffrage. Women won the right to vote through the 19th Amendment, which was passed by Congress on June 4th, 1919 and ratified on August 18th, 1920.
In 1971, the US Congress designated August 26th as Women's Equality Day to commemorate the passage of the 19th Amendment and celebrate the progress toward achieving gender equality while bringing awareness to areas where equality could continue to be gained.
While the passing of the 19th Amendment was a successful effort against sex discrimination, it was only the first step toward full and equal participation in other sectors, including leadership. In addition to celebrating the 19th Amendment, we also celebrate the 1965 Voting Rights Act that allowed Black women or women of color to vote.
March is recognized as Women's History Month, during which we reflect on the progress made since these pivotal moments. Presidents issue a proclamation annually to honor the contributions of American women throughout history.
That status of women's equality today
Despite the progress made toward gender equality, many women continue to advocate for equal rights. In many parts of the world, women face unequal treatment in the workplace, unequal pay, limited approach to education and healthcare, and unequal representation in politics. These inequalities may mean a long road toward true equality or equity in virtually every sector of society. Below are a few of these challenges to keep in mind this year.
Lack of women in leadership positions
An area in which women might face inequality is in leadership positions. Despite making up half the global workforce, women are often underrepresented in top leadership positions, particularly in politics, engineering, math, sciences, and the corporate world. This challenge may be attributed to outdated attitudes and a lack of awareness about the benefits of having more women in positions of power. In addition, it can be caused by social stigmas passed down from generation to generation.
Barriers to women's political participation
Several barriers may hinder women's political participation, including cultural attitudes, a lack of resources, and discriminatory laws and policies. In some countries, women could face legal and cultural barriers preventing them from participating in political life, such as laws restricting their ability to own property or travel without a man's approval.
Pay inequality
In 2023, white women make 83 cents to every dollar a man makes. This gap is more significant for BIPOC women, trans women, and immigrants. Pay inequality is often made to seem like a challenge of the past. However, it can occur due to sexist policies, beliefs, and stigmas in the workplace.
Reproductive inequality
In 2022, the Supreme Court overturned the Roe v. Wade case, removing federal safeguards on abortion. Due to this ruling, many states made abortion illegal for residents. In some, abortion was made punishable by imprisonment and heavy fines. These bans were applied to those who needed an abortion for multiple reasons, including those who have been through trauma, may die without one, or are minors. Many US organizations, like the ACLU, fight back for reproductive rights. Many American women, especially black women, face challenges in reproductive rights, highlighting the need for full equality in every aspect of American life, including healthcare.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
Identity inequality
LGBTQ+ women are among those with the least rights worldwide. For women in relationships with other women, unique challenges like adoption laws, birthright laws, immigration laws, and parentage laws can cause a lack of equal approach to family planning, childcare, and family immigration. In addition, same-sex couples comprising women are often susceptible to specific hate crimes and sexual violence from strangers in their communities, family members, friends, and others.
If you're an LGBTQ+ youth or young adult in crisis, contact The Trevor Project hotline by calling 1-866-488-7386 or texting "START" to 678-678. You can also use their online chat.
If you are experiencing sexual abuse or have experienced assault, note that the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) has a hotline dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing sexual assault, harassment, or intimate partner violence. You can contact them anytime by calling 800-656-HOPE (4673) or using the online chat.
How to celebrate Women's Equality Day
On Women's Equality Day August 26th, we not only celebrate a historic event but also recognize the other giant strides needed in areas like workplace equality, political representation, and social justice. This day, marked by Congress assembled, calls for continued advocacy for equal economic opportunity and full equality in all aspects of American life. Although efforts are still to be made for women's equality, there are a few ways you can celebrate the efforts of historical women to bring equality to all, including the following.
Educate yourself and others
It may be beneficial to learn about the history of the women's rights movement and the ongoing fight for gender equality. Discuss this information with others and encourage them to get involved. You can use trending hashtags on social media to connect with a wider audience and discuss the graphics or insights of other people online.
Get involved in advocacy
Support organizations and initiatives that work toward gender equality. You might try donating, volunteering, or joining a local women's rights organization. If you're not a woman, you can offer support by raising women's voices above your own and standing beside women during difficult conversations. Speak up if you see a man talking unkindly about women or perpetuating violent stereotypes.
Support women-led businesses
Buy products and services from women-owned businesses and support women entrepreneurs. If you are a business owner, you might donate a portion of the profits on Women's Equality Day to women's causes.
Amplify women's voices
Use your platform to amplify women's voices and give them a platform to speak out on issues that matter to them. You might encourage local schools to incorporate the stories of women's struggles and triumphs into their curriculum. Doing so may promote an environment of equality for the next generation.
Celebrate women's achievements
Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women in your community and worldwide. You can participate in local workshops and seminars that highlight women's contributions to civil rights or learn about the history of women’s achievements through self-study.
Advocate for policy changes
Advocate for policies that support gender equality, such as equal pay for equal work, paid parental leave, and affordable childcare. In addition, advocate for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC women who may face unique challenges in their identities.
Counseling options
Therapy can provide individuals with the tools and support to advocate for themselves and others and become active agents of change in their communities. By addressing the emotional and psychological effects of gender inequality, therapy can play a crucial role in helping individuals lead fulfilling and empowering lives.
If you struggle to find support in your community or want to look for a therapist that discusses your unique identity as a woman, you can also consider reaching out for support from an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. Online therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to process their experiences related to gender inequality. Appointments can be made with a woman, LGBTQ+, or BIPOC therapist, depending on your needs.
A recent study highlights the importance of seeking therapy to cope with the effects of gender discrimination. The study found that reflecting on past experiences of sexism and identifying the positive implications of those experiences can positively impact well-being. This process is known as benefit-finding, and it may help women cope with the harmful consequences of discrimination and motivate them to take action to fight gender inequality. In addition, studies have found that online therapy can be as effective as in-person options for treating conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is common in women.
Takeaway
What is the purpose of Women's Equality Day?
Women's Equality Day, observed on August 26th, commemorates the anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, the day women won the right to vote. The day is dedicated to celebrating and promoting women's achievements in various fields and advocating for their full and equal participation in all aspects of society and American life.
How do you honor Women's Equality Day?
You can honor Women's Equality Day by raising awareness about women's past and current struggles, celebrating progress, and continuing the fight for gender equality. Activities may include educational events, discussions, and acknowledging the contributions of women in different fields.
You can also honor this celebration by acknowledging other great strides for American women and women worldwide. For example, you might raise awareness about workforce equality by discussing quotes from the 1989 article "Attacking Sex Discrimination in the Labor Market: A Study in Law and Politics."
What are some fun facts about women's rights?
The women's suffrage movement, a pivotal part of women's rights, led to the passage of the 19th Amendment in the United States in 1920. Women's rights conventions, such as the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848, played a crucial role and are part of why we celebrate this proclamation annually. However, winning the right to vote was only the first step, and women continue to make significant strides in virtually every sector, including politics, science, business, and sports.
When President Richard Nixon helped establish Women's Equality Day in 1973, he said: “The struggle for women’s suffrage, however, was only the first step toward full and equal participation of women in our Nation’s life … And yet, much still remains to be done.” Decades later, these words remain true and relatable for many women.
How can we practice gender equality in our day-to-day life?
Promoting gender equality involves challenging stereotypes, treating individuals with respect regardless of gender, advocating for equal opportunities, and fostering inclusive environments at home, work, and social circles. It also involves actively supporting policies and initiatives that advance gender equality.
What is the importance of gender equality and how is it relevant in today's lives?
Gender equality is part of a just and equitable society. It ensures that all individuals, regardless of gender, can approach resources, opportunities, and decision-making processes equally. In today's rapidly changing world, gender equality is crucial for sustainable development and the overall well-being of communities.
According to the American Presidency Project: "Despite decades of progress, in far too many places around the world, the rights of women and girls are still under attack, holding back entire communities."
How can you help to promote gender equality in our society as a student?
As a student, one might promote gender equality by challenging stereotypes, supporting inclusive initiatives, participating in awareness campaigns, advocating for equal educational opportunities, and being mindful of language and behavior that may perpetuate gender bias.
How can we overcome gender discrimination in society?
Overcoming gender discrimination requires a mutual effort. It involves challenging discriminatory practices, promoting inclusive policies, educating communities about the effects of gender bias, and helping to foster a culture of equality and respect.
How can you promote or encourage gender equality in school and in the community?
Students can promote gender equality by organizing awareness campaigns, supporting inclusive policies, engaging in open discussions, and actively participating in activities that challenge gender stereotypes. In the community, involvement in local initiatives and advocacy for equal opportunities can make a significant impact.
What can students do to stop gender inequality in society?
Students can contribute to ending gender inequality by educating themselves and others, actively participating in advocacy groups, promoting inclusivity, and being vocal about equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender.
Why is gender equality important for sustainable development?
Gender equality is vital for sustainable development as it ensures that the talents and potential of all individuals, irrespective of gender, are fully utilized. By providing equal economic opportunity, education, and healthcare, societies can achieve a more balanced and sustainable development, benefiting the nation. Gender equality also contributes to social harmony and stability.
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