Acknowledging Women’s Equality Day: 104 Years of Progress and Empowerment

WACO, Texas (FOX 44) — As the nation observes the 104th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, the impact of this landmark legislation continues to resonate across the country.

The 19th Amendment, adopted in 1920, was a pivotal milestone in the long journey toward gender equality, halting the denial of voting rights based on gender by state and federal governments.

Patrick Flavin, a political science professor at Baylor University, reflected on the significance of the amendment.

“The 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote was one of the most important milestones along the way,” Flavin said.

The fight for women’s suffrage began over a century ago with passionate marches and protests.

Women like Susan B. Anthony, a staunch advocate for the cause who was famously convicted for voting illegally in 1872, played a crucial role in pushing for change.

The momentum continued with the 1913 Women’s Suffrage March in Washington, D.C., where approximately 5,000 women, including members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. marched for their right to vote.

Patty O’Day, a member of the Mclennan County Republican Party, expressed her enthusiasm for the progress made.

“I would have been out there with those ladies protesting on the street, holding signs, and encouraging men to vote for us. It’s great that we now have the power to vote,” said O’Day.

Patty has been voting since 1980, in local, state, and federal elections.

Since the ratification of the 19th Amendment, women have increasingly used their votes to make their voices heard and carve out significant roles in politics.

Mary Mann, a member of the McLennan County Democratic Party emphasized the importance of voting rights.

“Women’s voting rights are extremely important to me because as a woman, mom, grandmother, and public educator, it’s crucial to have your voice heard. Too many women feel their voices aren’t heard,” said Mann.

Today, young women are still being encouraged to vote by their elders because once upon a time, there was no choice.

“Their vote is very important. It’s what their future is going to be. We need everybody to get involved,” said O’Day.

Across McLennan County, efforts to honor this milestone are underway. Various organizations are working diligently to register new voters and encourage young women to participate in the electoral process. “Women today and all citizens of the United States need to be sure they’re registered to vote,” Mary urged.

The impact of women’s votes has been profound, leading to increased representation in political offices nationwide and here in Texas.

“The sky’s the limit. That glass ceiling is cracked and hopefully about to be broken, with women helping to get things done in our state,” Mary said.

As Women’s Equality Day is commemorated, the legacy of the 19th Amendment is celebrated not just as a historical achievement, but as a continuing call to action.

Today, women hold diverse roles as council members, judges, senators, governors, and more, illustrating the ongoing importance of the right to vote.

“I think it just shows how far we’ve come that both men and women’s views are fully incorporated into how we elect our leaders and how we make decisions about policy in this country,” said Flavin.

For many, the 19th Amendment remains a powerful symbol of progress and empowerment, reflecting the enduring impact of those early suffragists who paved the way for future generations.