Fort Huachuca, Arizona -- The Fort Huachuca Military Equal Opportunity Office team recognized Women's Equality Day Aug. 26 by hosting an observance in Fitch Auditorium, Alvarado Hall.
Celebrating Women's Right to Vote is this year's theme, commemorating the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, giving women the equal right to vote.
Fort Huachuca Equal Employment Opportunity Officer Sharon Walker enthusiastically welcomed the audience to this year's event.
"Hey! We get to remember the brave and courageous women who fought long and hard for women's suffrage. We also remember the men, especially 24-year-old Harry Burn who cast the deciding vote to ratify the 19th Amendment achieving the two-third majority vote needed [for women to gain the right to vote]," Walker said.
Next, she introduced Angela Wright from the Fort Huachuca Equal Employment Opportunity Office who read the 2015 presidential proclamation declaring Aug. 26 as Women's Equality Day.
"On August 26, 1920, after years of agitating to break down the barriers that stood between them and the ballot box, American women won the right to vote. On the front lines of pickets and protests, champions from every corner of our country banded together to expand this fundamental freedom to women and forge a path toward fairer representation and greater opportunity. As we celebrate 95 years since the certification of the 19th Amendment, let us demonstrate our commitment to the belief that we are all entitled to equal treatment by supporting policies that help women succeed and thrive," the proclamation read.
"Women's equality is a core civil and human rights principle in the United States and around the world. Across America, women are contributing to our economy and our Nation in innovative and exciting ways. From businesses to battlefields, women are vital to the prosperity and security of our country. As we celebrate the last 95 years of progress in advancing women's rights, let us rededicate ourselves to the idea that our Nation is not yet complete: there is still work to do to secure the blessings of our country for every American daughter," the proclamation continued.
Next, a short video showcased Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton and their roles in the women's suffrage movement in the United States. Then, members of the Fort Huachuca community went up to the front of the stage individually and described key events in the fight to gain women the right to vote.
Lady Linda Y. Foster, executive pastor of the First Full Gospel Baptist Church and director of Women of Passion, a local women's ministry group, was the keynote speaker. She shared her thoughts about equality and what needs to happen next.
"As an executive pastor and a director of my church's women ministry as well as a former U.S. Army spouse, I recognize my responsibility to value, encourage and prepare all women for the challenges ahead," Foster said.
"It is evident that there are numerous role models for women today that 50 years ago were not present. Today women occupy some of the most powerful positions in the world," she continued.
"In the past, in the United States, women were an untapped resource. We can now say that all citizens are created equal under the law. We can recognize and celebrate the successes and accomplishments of women in all fields of scientific, social and government." Foster stated.
"Globally there remains much work to be done, and in many other countries women are still second class -- or no-class -- citizens.
"We must continue to educate, support, encourage, mentor and guide our young girls and women to be the best they can be and not let barriers stand in their way. In the United States of America we are all created equal under the law," Foster said.
Equality -- where the Army is headed
The Army has made tremendous strides in opening more and more military occupational specialties (MOSs) to female Soldiers and are working to open more, including field artillery military MOSs. Recently, two women joined the ranks of the elite Army Rangers.
In an Army senior leaders' tri-signed letter, Celebrating Women's Equality Day, the top officials recognized women in the Army and made a pledge to both male and female Soldiers as the service moves into the future.
"As we acknowledge women's struggles and celebrate their right to vote, we also recognize women in the Army for their tremendous contributions and relentless spirit in helping to keep this nation free," the letter said.
"As the Army transitions into the future, we will ensure that men and women are given the opportunity to maximize their potential and are positioned for success. Women veterans, past and present, have proven the depth of their patriotism and bravery. Their exemplary dedication will be a touchstone as the Army affords greater opportunities for women to serve.
"In celebrating Women's Equality Day, the Army recognizes not only the significance of women's contributions but also the value of diversity and an inclusive environment. As we honor the women and their Army service, we encourage our entire Army Family to celebrate their leadership and courage. Like all Soldiers, they are the Strength of the Nation."
Social Sharing