Women’s Empowerment

Women’s empowerment is defined as the ability of women to obtain economic and political power. Since the early 1800s, women have been fighting for their rights and equal protection throughout the United States. On August 20, 1920, the Nineteenth Amendment was ratified, granting women the right to vote. This step lit the match on the women’s movement that we know today.

During the last 100 years, hundreds of organizations fighting for women’s rights and inclusion have been created across the United States. A few of the organizations include the National Organization for Women, the Center for Reproductive Rights, and the League of Women Voters.  Many of these organizations fight for a woman’s right to healthcare, voting rights, and basic rights outlined in the constitution. 

Amal Clooney is a leading international lawyer and philanthropist who is an advocate for human rights.  She has also teamed up with Michelle Obama and Melinda Gates to promote gender equality. 

Clooney states, “The worst thing that we can do as women is not stand up for each other, and this is something we can practice every day, no matter where we are and what we do – women sticking up for other women, choosing to protect and celebrate each other instead of competing or criticizing one another.”

Within the past few years, women have stepped into many political positions. Kamala Harris was sworn into office on January 20, 2021, electing the first woman Vice President of the United States. The Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, Pamela Evette, was elected on November 6, 2018, making her only the second woman to ever be elected as the Lt. Governor of S.C. Historically, the first woman’s rights convention was held in Seneca Falls, New York by Elizabeth Cady Stanton. As a result of the convention,  the Declaration of Sentiments was created to outline the rights demanded by women during the movement. 

Advanced Placement Human Geography teacher Toni McDowell commented, “The world has discovered that the key to economic improvement is found in the education of women. Investing in female literacy provides opportunities that curb poverty and promotes innovation.”

As history continues to be made, many people are hopeful that women will continue to make a lasting impact throughout the world.

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