Women’s Equality Day: 3 ways to engage

I just want to take a moment to acknowledge that today is Women’s Equality Day, which commemorates the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote.

I’ve shared before that I think voting is not an end game–it’s just a tool in a larger democratic process, one in which still do not have a very stable, sustainable role. To quote Alice Paul:

I always feel the movement is a sort of mosaic. Each of us puts in one little stone, and then you get a great mosaic at the end.

In 1920, the right to vote was just one little stone. Today there are many others that we (meaning men and women, young and old) still need to contribute. Here are three ways you can be a part of the mosaic that’s been building since 1848, when the first woman’s rights convention was held in Seneca Falls, NY:

Get informed. Learn more about the democratic process from established, respected, nonpartisan resources such as the League of Women Voters.

Get active. Today’s equality movement needs diverse resources to thrive, and it also offers diverse opportunities to engage. Join your local League, mentor a young woman, or donate to an organization related to the movement. You can also pursue an appointment to a board or commission. Michigan is one of many states with a women’s commission, and many counties are now establishing women’s commissions. But women’s perspectives are also needed on other boards and commissions at the local and state level… and it’s a great way to get started in local government and increase your leadership over time.

Get campaigning. I love that The White House Project cuts to the chase: “Add women. Change everything.” And they’re trying to do just that by training women to run for office. It’s nonpartisan and, from what I’ve heard, it’s a great experience. Regardless of whether they decide to run, I think more women should get some political training. Politics requires a different kind of savvy that can enhance other leadership skills.