International Women’s Day is up and coming and to celebrate we are highlighting some important women throughout American political history! But first, a little background about the holiday. Originally observed in the United States, International Women’s Day took place February 28th as a protest against working conditions for women in New York. In 1910 the day was made to honor the women’s rights movement and support suffrage for women globally. Over the years leading to an official date, the holiday was used in Russia to protest World War I and as a strike for women’s right to vote. Both of these events occurred on the last Sunday in February which translated on the Gregorian calendar as March 8th.
In 1975 the UN officially declared International Women’s Day to fall on March 8th. In the United States, we can use this holiday to acknowledge issues women and girls must deal with such as violence, discrimination, and lack of respect. Here are just a few of the women that helped advocate for women’s rights and shape our politics.
Susan B. Anthony
A more well-known activist, Susan B. Anthony spent her life focusing on racial, educational, and gender equality. She helped to start the Women’s National Loyal League to petition slavery as well as co-founded The Revolution, a newspaper focusing on the right to vote. Her actions lead to the passing of the 19th amendment giving women the right to vote.
Jeannette Rankin
In 1916, Jeanette Rankin was the first woman member to be elected in Congress as a representative for Montana. Prior to her election, she had a reputation as a suffragist who emphasized social welfare issues, and while running she was very outspoken about her views regarding the US participation in the European War.
Frances Perkins
During her time as the longest sitting secretary of the U.S. and while serving in the U.S. cabinet where she was the first female appointed, Frances Perkins was much accomplished. She was originally the states labor commissioner appointed by FDR and had an active role in public service.
Shirley Chisholm
Shirley Chisholm focused the majority of her career fighting for educational opportunities and social justice. She was the first black woman in Congress for the New York House of Representatives and first to seek nomination for the United States presidency. She faced many challenges in her political career including an underfunded campaign, limits on her speech and television time, and dealing with two minority identifiers of race and gender.
Sarah Palin
The Republican politician Sarah Palin was selected by Senator John McCain to serve as his vice- president in the 2008 election. Prior to them running, Palin served as the Governor of Alaska and the Wasilla city mayor. Though the duo did not win, she became a leading figure in the national Republican political party and helped to pave way for women running for higher-office positions.
Hillary Clinton
Hillary Clinton made history by being the 2016 runner-up for US president and by being the first woman in US history to be the presidential nominee for a major political party. In 2001, she was the first woman to win a public office seat when elected into the Senate. Appointed by Barack Obama, she also served as secretary of state prior to her presidential campaign.