Women’s Equality Day

Women’s Equality Day is celebrated every year on August 26 to commemorate the adoption of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution, which prohibits the federal government and states from denying voting rights to citizens based on their gender. Congress designated Women’s Equality Day in 1973, and since then, it has been annually proclaimed by the US president. 

Here is all you need to know about Women’s Equality Day. 

Historical Significance

The Secretary of Saint Bridge Colby signed the proclamation that granted American women the constitutional right to vote. After the Women’s Strike for Equality in 1973 and continued battles over the Equal Rights Amendment, Congresswoman Bella Abzug designated August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. 

In 1972, president Richard Nixon issued Proclamation 4147 to designate August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. Since then, every US president has issued a proclamation to designate August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. 

How to Celebrate Women’s Equality Day?

There is no particular day to celebrate women’s equality as it should be celebrated every day. However, Women’s Equality Day gives you the opportunity to promote gender equality. Here is how you can celebrate Women’s Equality Day. 

Encourage Female Power

If you are a manager or leader at your workplace, encourage female power by giving more responsibilities to females and investing in women’s development. You can do so by setting up women-specific internship programs and hiring more women. 

Support Local Businesses Owned by Women

Running a business takes a lot of willpower, especially the person running it is a woman. Find businesses run by women in your area and support them by buying from them. You can also spread the word about them and encourage more people to buy from them. 

Thank an Influential Woman in Your Life

Think of an influential woman in your life and thank her. She could be your mother, sister, wife, boss, relative, friend, or anyone who has positively impacted your life. You can thank her by sending her a thank-you letter, giving them a gift, or inviting them for dinner.

Be Vocal about Women’s Right

Even though women’s equality has come a long way since 1920 (when the Amendment was adopted), women across the world still face various issues when it comes to equal rights. So, one of the best things you can do on Women’s Equality Day is to be vocal about women’s rights. 

Donate to a Women’s Organization

Several nonprofit organizations are working towards women’s empowerment. By donating to them or volunteering your time, you can support their equality and empowerment initiatives. Some popular women empowerment organizations are:

• UN Women
• Global Fund for Women
• Self Employed Women’s Association
• Commission on the Status of Women
• Dress for Success

Final Thoughts

Women’s equality and empowerment is an ongoing process. Today, every country has women empowerment initiatives; however, one of the first building blocks of women’s equality was established in 1920 with the adoption of the 19th Amendment. 

You can celebrate Women’s Equality Day in various ways, such as empowering women in your area and donating to women’s organizations. 

How do you plan to celebrate Women’s Equality Day this year?