01 - June 4, 1919

Today is the start of the blog for 100 years of women being able to vote. Cheers to the women of America and my life. This is a great milestone in American History and a great reflection of the women that paved the way for me to be me.

On June 4, 1919, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was passed by Congress, guaranteeing women the right to vote. Each state would begin the ratification process of accepting the amendment in their state. Ratification is the confirmation by each state through the public vote to accept the amendment. The government required two-thirds of the states to ratify to make it a national amendment. Many people, men, feared the impact that women would have on the vote. How could women be educated enough to understand the complexities? Now, one hundred years later, more women are registered to vote and more likely to turn out at the voting booth. According to the US Department of Commerce in 2013, 67% of women were registered to vote and 58.5% turned out to cast a vote. As of 2018 elections, 110 women hold seats in the US Congress (20.6%; 23 Senators, 87 Reps). Women and men fought for the right for women to vote. This day marks a milestone in our continuing fight for equality.

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. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

Why am I making this statement? I am not a feminist. I do not have stories of disenfranchisement or battles that held me back. More the contrary. Family, friends, and colleagues empower me to be me, knowing not all women have been so lucky. This year marked an accomplishment in getting representation in the government that is struggling for balance. Throughout 2019, I became interested in the process of amendments through some novels and histories I read. I learned of the leadership during the Civil War, then watched “LINCOLN” and the process of the 13th Amendment. Approaching the 100 year anniversary of the 19th Amendment, I decided to create a graphic story sharing the accomplishments of women all around. Every state has them. We all see them. Let’s celebrate them and us! For 63 weeks following Congress passing of the 19th Amendment guaranteeing all women the right to vote. To reflect on the 100th anniversary of this historical date, I am going to share a woman born from each state once every week until the anniversary of the ratification. 1. The women are not proven to be the most amazing woman of the state, but one that I found to be of interest. 2. The women are all born in the state, not necessarily completing their most important work. 3. They are women I want to learn more about.