Although the U.S. Declaration of Independence, signed in 1776, is this nation’s first formal assertion that its people had the right to choose their own government — it would be another 144 years until women were able to exercise their inherent right to vote.
The Coast Guard will celebrate the enactment of the 19th Amendment on Women’s Equality Day, Monday, Aug. 26, 2024, from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. EDT. The event will be held at the Coast Guard’s Ceremonial Entrance at National Capital Region, Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Also, the event will be streamed live (Meeting ID: 993 774 657 116
Passcode: WrB6rT). You can also call-in at +1 (410) 874-6742 using Conference ID: 669 217 51.
“Women’s Equality Day is important because it renews our commitment to advancing gender equity and protecting women’s rights,” said Rear Adm. Matthew Lake, the program’s executive champion. “It also guides members of the Coast Guard to embrace all voices and perspectives in a honorable and respectful manner, thereby enhancing our missions and workplace experiences,” Lake added.
Women’s Equality Day is sponsored by the program’s executive champion, Rear Adm. Matthew Lake (CG-8). The event will include a panel with Rear Adm. Tiffany Danko (USCGR), Rear Adm. Zeita Merchant (USCG) and Capt. Jennifer Bowden (Chaplain Corps). The leadership panel will offer reflections on the theme: Inspire Inclusion: How do we get beyond “first” to equitable representation? This panel will be moderated by Michael Barton, the Coast Guard’s Ethics Attorney and retired Coast Guard captain.
Specifically, the 19th Amendment states, “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” The establishment of this equality for women under the law shaped the future of our republic.
Join your shipmates in celebrating this mandate and the important role it played in the progression of American history. For more information, please contact: Sara A. Florin at Sara.A.Florini@uscg.mil or (202) 795-6003.
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