Women’s Equality Day celebration to be held in Menomonie August 26
The public is invited to celebrate Women’s Equality Day, hosted by the League of Women Voters-Greater Chippewa Valley, on Wednesday, August 26, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wilson Park in Menomonie.
The day marks the 100th Anniversary of the passage of the 19th amendment to the U.S. Constitution which granted women the right to vote and to hold public office.
Local churches have been invited to ring their bells for one full minute beginning at 12 noon in celebration of this important moment. Those attending are encouraged to bring their own bell to ring, whistle to blow, or other small musical item to ring. A short program with music will be held after the bell ringing. League members are invited to wear white clothing, traditional garb for suffragists, in celebration.
“Women’s Equality Day is a time to reflect on the role of women in our public life, and their place in history,” said Judy Ferber, event coordinator. “We honor the struggle of the suffragists who, through nonviolent civil-rights protests over 72 years (1848-1920), persevered in the face of strong opposition and little power. The 100th Anniversary is the perfect time for both women and men to honor women’s hard won progress as we continue to work for universal freedom, justice, equality and a more perfect democracy! “
The League of Women Voters is a citizens’ organization that has fought since 1920 to improve government and engage all citizens in the decisions that impact their lives. From the beginning, the League has been an activist, grassroots organization whose leaders believed that citizens should play a critical role in advocacy.
The celebration will take place in Wilson Park during the Menomonie Farmer’s Market, which will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the timber frame pavilion. The Women’s Equality Day celebration will take place in and near the band shell.
COVID-19’s state health guidelines need to be followed including wearing a face covering under all the outdoor park structures. Wearing of face coverings in other areas of the park is strongly recommended. Follow social distancing guidelines of staying at least six feet apart from other people.
See www.lwv-gcv.org for more information about the League of Women Voters-Greater Chippewa Valley, or contact Annemarie McClellan at mcclellan.am@gmail.com.
