National Women’s Equality Day is celebrated in the United States on August 26 each year. This day commemorates the certification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920, which granted women the right to vote. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s rights.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: August 26
- Tagged as: Women’s Equality Day
- What’s the hashtag?: #WomensEqualityDay
- When was it founded?: 1971
- Who founded it?: Congresswoman Bella Abzug
History of Women’s Equality Day
Women’s Equality Day originated from the suffragette movement, which fought for women’s voting rights. The Nineteenth Amendment was ratified on August 24, 1920, and officially certified two days later. The day became a celebration in 1971 when Bella Abzug introduced a resolution to honor this milestone.
Timeline
- 1920: Nineteenth Amendment ratified, granting women the right to vote.
- 1970: The Women’s Strike for Equality takes place, marking the 50th anniversary of the amendment.
- 1971: Congresswoman Bella Abzug introduces a bill to establish Women’s Equality Day.
- 1973: Congress officially designates August 26 as Women’s Equality Day.
- 1972: President Nixon issues the first proclamation recognizing Women’s Equality Day.
- 2024 onwards: The day continues to be recognized annually by subsequent presidents.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 26 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | August 26 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | August 26 | Thursday |
| 2028 | August 26 | Saturday |
| 2029 | August 26 | Sunday |
| 2030 | August 26 | Monday |
Observed
Women’s Equality Day is observed across the United States with various activities aimed at raising awareness about women’s rights and celebrating progress made towards equality.
Fun Facts About Women’s Equality Day
- The colors associated with Women’s Equality Day are purple, white, and gold, symbolizing the women’s suffrage movement.
- The first major protest for gender equality in U.S. history occurred on August 26, 1970, with over 100,000 women participating nationwide.
Quiz
- What year was the Nineteenth Amendment ratified?
- Who introduced the resolution to establish Women’s Equality Day?
- What colors represent Women’s Equality Day?
Answers:
- 1920
- Bella Abzug
- Purple, white, and gold
Objective Quiz
- When is Women’s Equality Day celebrated?
- a) July 4
- b) August 26
- c) September 15
- d) October 31
(Answer: b)
- Which amendment granted women the right to vote?
- a) The First Amendment
- b) The Tenth Amendment
- c) The Nineteenth Amendment
- d) The Twenty-Sixth Amendment
(Answer: c)
- Who introduced the resolution to establish Women’s Equality Day?
- a) Gloria Steinem
- b) Bella Abzug
- c) Eleanor Roosevelt
- d) Susan B. Anthony
(Answer: b)
FAQs
Q: Is Women’s Equality Day a public holiday?
A: No, it is not a public holiday but is recognized through various observances and events.
Q: How can I celebrate Women’s Equality Day?
A: You can celebrate by attending events, supporting women-owned businesses, or participating in discussions about gender equality.
Q: Why is Women’s Equality Day important?
A: It celebrates progress made toward gender equality while reminding us of ongoing challenges.
Q: How can I celebrate Women’s Equality Day?
A: Support women-owned businesses, engage in discussions about gender equality, or share resources online.
Q: What does the day commemorate?
A: The ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment granting women voting rights.
Related
- International Women’s Day
- National Girls and Women in Sports Day
- Susan B. Anthony Day