A day before one of the biggest and most anticipated days of the year (Presidential Inauguration) a march took place on March 3, 1913, that would forever change the inclusion of women and give them the right to vote. The Women’s Suffrage March of 1913 is a day in history we must never forget.
The movement has sparked revolutionary changes for women throughout history and still influences things today.
The Women’s Suffrage March itself wasn’t as peaceful as one would assume because many were opposed to the idea of allowing women to participate fully in all areas of society and democracy. By marching the day before the inauguration of President Woodrow Wilson, the suffragists secured more attention than they ever could have hoped for.
During the course of the march, some spectators reacted violently against the women, tripping them and causing bodily harm. Even with this reaction, it didn't stop these women from doing what they came to do.
Many historians have labeled the Women’s Suffrage Movement as a turning point for promoting inspiration and change across the country. Here are some ways the Women’s Suffrage Movement and March continue to make an impact today.Better Reproductive Rights for Women
The discussion over women’s reproductive rights continues to this day, and it would be nothing without the Women's Suffrage March to ignite it all. The march sparked the discussion that would lead to the legalization of birth control in 1965.
It started the conversation about body autonomy and the ability not just for women, but for all people to have a say over their bodies and decisions that will affect their future. Body autonomy focuses on empowering women to not only make decisions, but BETTER INFORMED decisions. Not to mention, it paved the way for important discussions about our bodies and sex. Continued Voting Rights
We understand—it’s hard to believe that once upon a time women weren’t allowed to vote, but you better believe it. The Women’s Suffrage March and Movement created a completely new pool of voters whose opinions would help make important political decisions.
The 19th Amendment allowed all women, regardless of race, to vote. Since then, the 19th Amendment has been revised to provide voting rights to all people no matter their sex or race. The Women’s Suffrage March gives women and young girls the freedom to dream big and achieve anything they want to achieve.
As an educator, you can motivate your students to use their imagination and creativity when completing writing assignments, like the ones that can be found in the 5 Weeks of Creative & Imaginative Writing Lessons core book for teachers and students.
These activities help children to THINK BIG and stretch their minds beyond what they already know. Making a difference and enforcing change begins with a person’s ability to believe that things can evolve. It’s up to YOU to inspire the change that will spark and grow the minds of the future leaders of this world.
Remember the Women’s Suffrage Movement started as an idea that was fueled by women and people who had the motivation to make it more and push the envelope. Another thing to remember is that ever since the Women’s Suffrage Movement began many women became activists, like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, to continue fighting for women's rights.
Today we continue the fight to ensure women are treated equally in all settings whether political or societal. Stand up and embrace your part in the movement because it can’t be STOPPED!
Check out more need-to-know historical facts and insights by following the Gallopade blog.Free Teaching Resource:
Women’s Suffrage Activity Pages from Gallopade International’s "Women's Suffrage – Common Core Lessons & Activities"