Why is August 26th Women Equality Day?
The ratification of the 19th amendment on August 26, 1920, marked the end of a 72-year political campaign, which began with the first women’s rights convention in Seneca Falls in July of 1848. The date was celebrated by those concerned, but didn’t receive much public notice until Bella Abzug, Congresswoman from New York City, petitioned the Nixon administration to declare it Women’s Equality Day in 1971. That did not make it an official holiday, however, as it must be re-proclaimed by the president each year. It is hoped that these parades will be the first step toward making August 26 an official women’s holiday.” When ever August 26 falls on a Sunday or a weekday it is, not the best day for a parade. Thus the parade will be held on the preceding Saturday.
