Nancy Brinker United States Ambassador
Power of Female Vote Is Formidable
A
s we mark the anniver- sary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment this month, we celebrate a
monumental milestone in the fight for equality: the moment women in the United States were granted the right to vote. This pivotal event in 1920 was the culmination of decades of tireless advocacy, courage, and resilience by suffragists who envisioned a nation where women’s voices would be heard and valued in the democratic process. Today, this legacy calls upon
us to reflect on the progress we’ve made and to recognize the critical role women play in shap- ing our nation’s future, particu- larly in the upcoming elections and in service to our country. The 19th Amendment was
not merely about granting women the right to vote; it was about acknowledging their equal stake in our nation’s governance. This principle is as vital today as it was a century ago. As we approach the upcoming elec-
tions, we must remember that women’s participation in voting and in holding office is essential to a truly represen- tative democracy. The power of the female electorate is formidable. In recent years, women have been pivotal in influencing election out-
comes, advocating for policies that address a broad spectrum of issues. However, the fight for equality did
not end with the right to vote. Women have continued to break barriers and shatter glass ceilings across all sectors, including public service. From city councils to Congress, and
from grassroots organizers to high- ranking military officials, women have proven time and again that their con-
Women and Politics at Rutgers Uni- versity, female representation in state legislatures also stands at record levels across the country. By supporting women candidates
and ensuring that women’s voices are heard in policy debates, we honor the legacy of the suffragists who fought so hard for our rights. This is not just about gender; it is
about enriching our democracy with diverse perspectives that lead to more comprehensive and responsive poli- cies to the challenges confronting America. In particular, I want to highlight the
role of women in service — those who serve in our military, in public office, as ambassadors, and in community leadership. Women in these roles exem-
Congress are women. 28%
tributions are invaluable. Women make up more than a
quarter (28%) of all members of the 118th Congress — the highest percent- age in U.S. history and a considerable increase from where things stood even a decade ago. In addition to 25 women senators
and 126 congresswomen currently in office, today we have 12 female gov- ernors and 22 lieutenant governors. According to the Center for American
Supporting women candidates and ensuring that women’s voices are heard enriches our democracy with diverse perspectives that lead to more comprehensive and responsive policies.
34 NEWSMAX | AUGUST 2024
of all members of the 118th
plify the spirit of the 19th Amendment. They embody courage, dedication, and a com- mitment to the greater good. Yet, there’s more work to
be done. On average, women account for 46% of public administrators but hold just 31% of top leadership positions.
As we commemorate the ratifica-
tion of the 19th Amendment, let us look forward. Let us commit to increas- ing the representation of women in all areas of public service. Let us ensure that the rights we cel-
ebrate today are not taken for granted, but rather are expanded and strength- ened for future generations. This August, as we honor the suf-
fragists who paved the way, let us also pledge to support and uplift the women who continue to fight for equality in every corner of our society. By doing so, we not only pay tribute to our past but also build a brighter, more equi- table future for all.
Nancy G. Brinker is the founder of The Promise Fund of Florida and former U.S. ambassador to Hungary.
CHIP SOMODEVILLA/GETTY IMAGES
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