Remember those who fought for voters rights by casting a ballot
To the editor:
Every woman 18 years and older should recognize the names Susan B. Anthony, Jeanette Rankin, Olympia Brown, Carrie Chapman Catt, Lucy Stone, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucy Burns and Alice Paul. If you do not, let me introduce you to a few women who fought for your right to vote.
These women are just a few names who took part in women’s suffrage in the 19th century as well as into the 20th century. These women had various backgrounds and education levels. Black and white women worked together for one national cause – a women’s right to vote.
Women worked in factories to support the war during World War I, but still did not have the right to vote. It was not until 1920, when the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified which guarantees all American women the right to vote. It only took 42 years for that to happen!
When you cast your ballot, remember that these women were arrested, beaten and imprisoned in a building with no heat during the winter months, endured forced feedings during hunger strikes, were ostracized by society, and abandoned by their husbands. These women endured this treatment while fighting for YOUR right to vote! Many of the women who started the suffrage movement did not live long enough to cast their vote. When I cast my ballot, I give gratitude to the strength and courage of women who fought for me.
In this country, driving is a privilege, voting is your right. Exercise your right to vote on Sept. 13 and Nov. 8. Do not believe that your vote does not count or that you cannot make a difference. You can, just like the women who fought for your right.
Teresa Hopgood
Cape Coral