It is easy to take for granted the rights and liberties we possess as Americans. A right many often overlook is the ability to choose our local, state and national leaders. The coming year marks the 100th anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment, which secured right to vote for women. This historic occasion is an opportunity for us to reflect on the legacy of women’s suffrage and continue the fight for more equal representation in our government and in our society.
The right to vote is essential to our democracy, yet it is a relatively new one for more than half of Americans. The women and men who helped secure the right to vote left us a great responsibility – the ability to select our leaders and to seek elected office. As we celebrate the legacy of those who came before us, we must remember that many who fought for this right never had the chance to cast their own ballot.
Efforts are already underway to celebrate the anniversary of the final ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment, which took place on Aug. 26, 1920. This legislative session, the Indiana General Assembly, established the Indiana Women’s Suffrage Centennial Commission. This commission will commemorate the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, and organize and promote activities throughout the state to celebrate the women who secured the right to vote.
To learn more about the history of women’s suffrage in Indiana and participate in upcoming events including marches, forums, speeches and other gatherings in your area celebrating women’s suffrage, visit www.indianasuffrage100.org.
I encourage all Hoosiers to reflect on the ideals that inspired the suffrage movement across the nation and here in Indiana. While progress has been made, work remains to be done to foster inclusivity and equality. We are still largely underrepresented in leadership positions in businesses and in government. Women make up less than 5% of CEOs of Fortune 500 companies and 25% of U.S. legislators.
As a business owner and legislator, I know firsthand the obstacles that can keep others from pursuing prominent roles and positions. Whenever we can promote women in leadership by helping other women, it is a worthwhile cause. Over the last two years, I have been fortunate enough to serve as president of POWER Caucus, and work with fellow legislators to empower the hardworking women of Indiana. POWER Caucus serves as a forum for women legislators interested in improving the quality of life for women and all citizens of Indiana.
When we tackle problems together in a united approach, we make an impact that affects women across the state.
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State Rep. Holli Sullivan (R-Evansville) represents House District 78,
which includes portions of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
