Tuesday, Aug. 26, marks the 94th anniversary of the 19th amendment being signed into law. It is also Women’s Equality Day, originally meant to commemorate the passing of the 19th amendment, which finally gave women the right to vote. And while it’s important to recognize how far we’ve come since this day’s establishment, its meaning has evolved to also encompass women’s continued struggle for full equality, a source of much heated contention at the nation’s political forefront.
Today, the need for lawmakers to not only incorporate, but prioritize women’s issues in their platforms is undeniable. In terms of economic security alone, women account for about two-thirds of this country’s minimum wage workers. The question of gender inequality isn’t whether or not it still exists, but why it continues to be such a pervasive issue in our society. And why some lawmakers continue to diminish it.
For these reasons, and so many more, it matters who we elect into office to take on these issues and fairly acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. With Congresswoman Suzan DelBene’s comprehensive efforts to promote women’s economic equality, and her continued leadership in fighting against the war on women’s reproductive rights, her re-election is vital to protecting women’s rights in not only Washington state, but this country as a whole.
Rick Bligh
Marysville
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