What the 19th Amendment means 100 years later

Written by ls2group

One hundred years ago, the passage of the 19^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guaranteed women the right to vote, to engage in the sacred democratic American electoral process, and to have our voices heard for generations to come.

It’s because of the 19^th Amendment that we were able to watch as a historical number of women were elected in 2018 to Congress and state legislatures around the nation—a beautiful tribute to the suffragettes before us whose historical fight for freedom reveals itself more and more.

To commemorate this bold movement of female freedom, sacrifice, and liberation 100 years later, I would like to share three reasons why the 19^th Amendment is important to me as a politically active and passionate female voter.

1.  My vote has purpose.

The 19^th Amendment allows me to exercise one of my greatest purposes in life: to serve others with peace and compassion.

Growing up I was witness to members of my extended family struggling to pay rent, medical bills, and to provide food for their families. It became apparent, though, that millions of families in America share similar hardships. That’s why when I vote, I do so seeking to make substantial change.

With my vote, I can help the poor, the hungry, and the homeless. I can provide education, jobs, and healthcare to my neighbors whose struggles may differ from my own.

2. My independence has value. 

Because of the 19^th Amendment, I have the authority to determine what role the government may play in my life, not the other way around. 

As we commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the 19^th Amendment, it’s important to reflect on the significance of this right as a form of our independence as women. We should be recognizing that in other parts of the world women struggle to gain such a crucial human right. When we vote, we are voting for our fellow women whose right to independence is not yet authorized. 

3. I am worthy.

The 19^th amendment not only signifies our right as women to vote, but it’s a solidified statute in our nation, proclaiming the voices of women as necessary and significant to the successes of this country.

It’s the feeling of walking out of my precinct after casting my vote that I love the most. I’m overcome by a sense of accomplishment, like a deep breath exhaled. Because when I vote, I am reminded of my worth as a human being, as an American citizen, and as a woman actively participating in the democratic process.

Happy 100 years to my fellow female voters. You are valuable.