12TH DISTRICT LEGISLATORS REFLECT ON STRIDES IN WOMEN’S EQUALITY

Today the State of New Jersey commemorates the 90th anniversary of the ratification of one of the most influential amendments on our society: the 19th Amendment, by celebrating Women’s Equality Day.

This amendment changed not only how women participated in our elections, but how they are viewed as members of society. With an equal vote, women were given the same tools as men to make their voices heard as they cast their ballots on issues that directly affect them, both as women and as members of the community.

As we consider this particular milestone, and reflect on the fact that in the less than 100 years since the passage of this law we have seen women go from having no vote to having females candidates from both parties considered viable candidates for Presidency of the United States, we take a certain amount of pride. Although we have yet to see a woman sit in the Oval Office, it is not far out of reach, and women have taken significant strides in the political arena. This district, with two of the three legislators women, is an example of how far we’ve come.

Although the changes in how women participate in society are significant when viewed over the past 90 years, we have yet to reach full equality in the workplace and in elected positions. As we contemplate how far we’ve come, it is important to remain focused on achieving even greater success in women’s equality, both within the United States and abroad.

Senator Jennifer Beck
Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon
Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande