Tallahassee, Fl. –– Today marks the 99th anniversary of the enactment of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, enshrining the right of all women to vote.
The Nineteenth Amendment was ratified on August 18, 1920, but it was not until August 26, 1920, that the ratification was certified by U.S. Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby. It is celebrated each year as Women’s Equality Day. Terrie Rizzo, chair of the Florida Democratic Party, reflected on this important day and how we must work to ensure no one’s voting rights are suppressed: “99 years ago today, women finally received full voting rights in America. Women’s Equality Day marks this major step for women’s rights that is part of a long struggle for the rights of all women which still goes on to this day.
The Nineteenth Amendment was an important step in American progress and it is a reminder that the United States is an imperfect country that strives and does make itself better. That yearning to become a more equitable country is what makes the United States a beacon for a freedom that so many around the world seek and is something we must work to achieve every day.
The Sunshine State can advance progress for women in the United States today. As of now, only one more state is needed for ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment – let us work to make Florida the 38th and final state needed to make the ERA enshrined in the Constitution by Equality Day’s 100th Birthday next year!
This day is also an important reminder of the importance of ensuring no American citizen’s right to vote is impeded or suppressed. That is why we Democrats must continue to work to register voters and protect the right to vote. And remember, the Florida Democratic Party’s voter protection hotline is there to help all Floridian voters at (833) VOTE-FLA.”
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