It was a sweltering hot day, that July 4, 1876, as a young nation, the United States of America, celebrated its Centennial in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Susan B. Anthony strode to the speaking platform uninvited, as she was not on the official program. The National Women’s Suffrage Association (NWSA) had requested a speaking role at the official celebration, but they were politely told the roster was filled. Instead, the NWSA was given five seats in the audience.
Later, after the official reading of the Declaration of Independence, Susan rose from her seat and approached the men on the platform. She presented Vice President Thomas W. Ferry with the Woman’s Declaration of Rights, a document demanding justice for women that she had thoughtfully written with Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Matilda Gage. As she left the platform, the audience eagerly snapped up additional copies of the declaration being passed out by NWSA representatives. The women then moved to the other side of Independence Square and had their own rally, complete with singing and speeches. Gage held an umbrella over Susan’s head for hours to protect her from the broiling sun.
Susan’s words that day still ring true: “We ask justice, we ask equality, we ask that all the civil and political rights that belong to citizens of the United States, be guaranteed to us and our daughters forever.” Nearly 150 years have passed, and women still find themselves fighting for justice, equality, and the right to make their own decisions about their bodies.
This story is a wonderful example of the female voices in American history that need to be told. Was this story about Susan B. Anthony covered in your high school history class? Voices of American HERstory hopes to educate and enlighten new audiences through performances, interactive discussion, and inspiring stories about women. We hope you’ll help us do that by supporting our fundraising campaign starting Monday, July 4!
Learn more at: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/voicesofherstory/voices-of-american-herstory-comes-to-life
Also visit our website: www.voicesofamericanherstory.com