August 26, 2010: Kaptur Statement on the 90th Anniversary of Women Gaining the Right to Vote

Congresswoman Kaptur today issued the following statement to mark Women’s Equality Day and to celebrate the 90th anniversary of women gaining the right to vote:

“Ninety years ago today, America finally extended to women the right to vote and took an important step toward achieving its destiny as a nation where equality is embodied in the law.

“The road was difficult. Courageous women who became known as suffragettes had to march, struggle and sacrifice in order to bring the dream of equality closer to reality.

“As Carrie Chapman Catt, the founder of the League of Women Voters, said about the effort to win passage of the 19th Amendment: ‘To get the word ‘male’ in effect out of the Constitution cost the women of the country 52 years of pauseless campaign.’

“Yet, Ms. Catt and her colleagues were not to be denied. Their quest was to create a more perfect union and today, we are the beneficiaries of their foresight and dedication.

“On Women’s Equality Day, we honor their contribution. We stand on their shoulders and recommit ourselves to the ongoing process of creating a more perfect union.”