Women's Equality Day: The history and the progress

August 26th marks Women's Equality Day, commemorating the certification of the 19th Amendment in 1920 which granted women the right to vote in the United States. This historic achievement was the culmination of decades of tireless activism and advocacy by suffragists campaigning for women's voting rights.

The 19th Amendment and Its Impact

The 19th Amendment made it illegal to deny citizens the right to vote based on sex. However, it's crucial to note that this right was not extended to all women equally. Millions of women of color were effectively excluded from voting rights in 1920, despite Black women's involvement in the suffragette movement.

The Ongoing Fight for Equality

Women's Equality Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equal rights and opportunities for women globally. This historic achievement laid the groundwork for future advancements in women's rights. Despite the progress made since the ratification of the 19th Amendment, gender inequality persists in various forms. Because I know Sapahn women are socially conscious, active, and educated, you want the facts. So here they are:

1. Global Gender Gap: As of 2024, the global gender gap is 68% closed, with Europe leading at 76.3%. However, it is estimated that it will take another 131 years to achieve full gender equality worldwide.
2. Legal Rights: Women enjoy less than two-thirds of the legal rights available to men. For example, 40% of women worldwide live in countries with restrictive abortion laws.
3. Leadership Roles: Women remain underrepresented in senior leadership roles across various sectors. Only 47 of the Fortune 500 companies are led by women as of 2024.
4. Economic Participation: Women participate in the global workforce at a rate of just over 50%, compared to nearly 75% for men. Women earn 84 cents for every dollar earned by men in the United States, and the gender pay gap is not expected to close until 2088.
5. Economic Disparities: Women earn, on average, 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. The gender pay gap is a persistent issue, with women worldwide earning significantly less over their lifetimes compared to men.
6. Violence and Safety: One in three women globally have experienced physical or sexual violence, and every 11 minutes, a woman or girl is killed by a family member.
7. Educational Inequality: In low-income countries, for every 100 boys who continue their education after high school, only 55 girls do the same. This gap in education access has long-term implications for economic and social outcomes.
8. Reproductive Rights: 40% of women worldwide live in countries with restrictive abortion laws, and 270 million women lack access to modern contraception.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for continued efforts to address gender inequality across various dimensions.

Taking Action

I also know Sapahn women are up for fight, asking, "What can I do to help support women's rights and equality?" Here are some amazing organizations you can learn from, help and contribute to:

1. Global Fund for Women: This organization supports gender equality movements worldwide by providing financial resources and advocacy for women's rights organizations. They have funded grassroots feminist movements in over 175 countries.
2. Women for Women International: Focused on empowering marginalized women in conflict-affected areas, this NGO provides access to resources, education, and economic opportunities.
3. UN Women: As a global champion for gender equality, UN Women works to advance women's rights through various initiatives and advocacy efforts.
4. Equality Now: This organization works through an international network to protect and promote the human rights of women and girls, holding governments accountable for change.
5. Women Deliver: A global advocate for gender equality and the health and rights of girls and women, Women Deliver supports political action and financial aid.
6. CARE International: This organization fights poverty and social injustice globally, with a focus on empowering women and girls through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
7. Center for Reproductive Rights: This organization uses the power of law to advance reproductive rights as fundamental human rights worldwide.
8. Girl Effect: Focused on empowering adolescent girls in developing countries, Girl Effect offers education, health, and economic opportunities.

These organizations offer various ways to get involved, from donations to volunteering and advocacy, allowing individuals to contribute to the ongoing fight for women's equality and rights.

As we celebrate Women's Equality Day, it is essential to recognize both the progress made and the challenges that remain in the fight for gender equality. By educating ourselves about these issues and supporting organizations dedicated to advancing women's rights, we can contribute to a more equitable world for all. Every action, no matter how small, can create ripples of change that empower women and girls everywhere. Let us commit to standing together in solidarity, advocating for justice, and ensuring that the rights of all women are recognized and upheld.