1912 → 1920 → 2020
One hundred years ago today Oregon ratified the 19th Amendment, which eventually gave women the right to vote across the country.
But that was not new for us. Oregon was one of the few states that recognized the right of women to vote before the passage of the 19th Amendment. Thanks to the work of Abigail Scott Duniway and other suffragists, Oregon did that back in 1912.
Women's suffrage in Oregon is an important part of our history, and it was also part of a broader movement that smashed through that barrier nationally. The 19th Amendment was a meaningful step, but several decades passed before women of color were granted the right to vote.
Yes, we have made progress, but there are still some who are trying to move us in the wrong direction. There are efforts in several states to deny people their constitutional right to vote – to have a say in our country's future.
I'm in the fight to make sure every eligible voter has a voice and a vote. And we'll be there together throughout 2020 as we work hard to win this election – and elections across our country.
Stay strong. And get ready. If we work hard and work together, this year's going to be another one for the history books.
Suzanne