Suffrage100MA

Suffrage100MA is dedicated to commemorating the anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1920, prohibiting the federal and state governments from denying the right to vote on the basis of sex.  It took a 72-year struggle, by thousands of suffragists, to achieve adoption of the 19th Amendment in August of 1920. 

A main goal of Suffrage100MA is to commemorate and tell the story of the remarkable achievement of the suffragists, including the tireless work and essential contributions of women of color, who were often excluded by white women’s suffrage organizations, and whose role in the suffrage movement has been largely overlooked.

Also, the adoption of the 19th Amendment was an enormous step forward, but it did not guarantee voting rights for all women – particularly African American women in the south who were subjected to Jim Crow laws along with African American men, and other women – and men – of color who also did not obtain the vote with the adoption of the 19^thAmendment.  

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 and other legislation have done much to help ensure voting rights for people of color. Unfortunately, however, there has been a concerted effort over the past 30 years to once again restrict voting rights and voter access in many states. The right to vote is a fundamental right that cannot be taken for granted and must be protected for all citizens. The centennial is an opportunity to learn about the voting rights history and issues faced by numerous minorities in the United States. It is also an opportunity to remind us all to appreciate, value, and exercise our right to vote! 

Our goals include sharing the herstory of all suffragists, increasing voter participation, providing educational opportunities, recognizing the progress of women’s rights and shining a light on all we need to do to achieve full equality for all. 

In addition to presenting events, Suffrage100MA encourages and supports organizations across Massachusetts to present events and activities that highlight the history of the women’s suffrage movement and women’s rights.