Women’s Equality Day, August 26, 2021, commemorates the adoption of the 19th Amendment, granting voting rights for many American women. On this day the League of Women Voters of Texas celebrates advancements made towards achieving full political, economic, and social equality. It is a celebration of the trailblazers, visionaries, and suffragists who have worked towards equal rights for all.
"We take this day to reflect on how far we have come and to assess the future of voting and elections in Texas," said Grace Chimene, President of the Texas League. "The 19th Amendment was a step forward to ensuring every voice is heard in the crafting of the laws that impacts us all. League members and supporters believe democracy works best when all eligible voters can participate."
"The Texas League was founded in 1919, a year before the 19th Amendment was adopted," said Chimene, "I am encouraged by the women leaders around the state who continue to advocate for equality for all. The League's mission is: Empower Voters. Defend Democracy. We are non-partisan, never supporting or opposing candidates for elected office or political parties."
The League in Texas empowers voters by:
- registering voters,
- hosting candidate and issue forums,
- providing print and electronic Voter Guides in English and Spanish,
- outreach and education on safe voting and voting laws in Texas to high school and college students, the elderly, people with disabilities.
VOTE411.org is the Leagues online voter information platform that voters can use to find out about voting in their county, what positions and candidates are on the ballot, and unbiased information about candidates. Last year 643,678 Texans used VOTE411.org for the first time.
The League's work defending democracy in Texas includes:
- Providing testimony at legislature on a wide variety of issues including health care for children and the elderly, reproductive justice, equality for marginalized communities, gun safety, public education as well as our mainstays, voting rights and election laws.
- Promoting active civic participation by sending Action Alerts to members and supporters that enable them to share their experiences, concerns and opinions on current issues.
- Training citizens around the state to participate in public hearings, particularly on redistricting in Texas.
- Educating Texans on current issues being addressed by the Legislature via webinars and social media.
During the 2021 Texas Legislative Session(s), 6,664 League members and supporters generated well over 250,000 letters, tweets or letters to the editor about the issues important to them -- most regarding the voting barriers that the Legislature is determined to pass this year.
"I salute all of the amazing League leaders, members and supporters in Texas! All across Texas they are to rising the challenges creatively and in ways that are meaningful in their local communities. Happy Women's Equality Day to all!"