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The Democratic National Convention recently highlighted some of the most powerful and talented women in American politics, showcasing their potential to become influential leaders.
Former Secretary of State and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s presence at the convention prompted reflection on her missed presidential runoff in 2016. Meanwhile, speeches by women like Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett of Texas and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York highlighted the significant progress women have made in the political arena in the U.S. As speaker after speaker praised the credentials and abilities of 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, many felt the time had finally come for a woman to be president.
The evolving role of women in American politics reflects broader social changes and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Women’s participation in politics began to gain momentum in the 19th century as more women advocated for social reforms, including the abolition of slavery. It was a challenging task because women faced opposition in a male-dominated society. Many women bravely fought against restrictions imposed by their husbands, fathers, and other male relatives, as well as misunderstandings of biblical teachings that marginalized their roles. At the time, women were required to remain silent in churches, were limited to caretaking roles at home, and had no formal political power because they could not vote.
The fight for women’s suffrage gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, led by pioneers like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Despite significant challenges, the movement ultimately culminated in the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote—a milestone achieved 104 years ago.
However, women did not stop at fighting for the right to vote; they also sought the right to hold office in local, state, and federal government alongside their male counterparts. In 1916, Jeannette Rankin of Montana became the first woman elected to Congress, at a time when women nationwide did not have the right to vote. Over the decades, the number of women in Congress gradually increased, and women began to influence policy at the state and local levels in areas such as education, health, and welfare.
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The civil rights movement and feminist resurgence of the 1960s and 1970s brought renewed attention to gender equality. Although the Equal Rights Amendment was ultimately unsuccessful, there was a recognition of the need to increase female representation in politics. Shirley Chisholm, a Democrat of Caribbean descent, seized the opportunity. In 1968, she became the first black woman elected to Congress, and in 1972, she became the first woman to seek a major party’s presidential nomination. Despite long odds and much opposition, Chisholm’s historic campaign sent a signal to America that women could run for president.
Shirley Chisholm’s legacy has inspired women of all racial and ethnic backgrounds to pursue political leadership. The 1992 election, often referred to as the “Year of the Woman,” saw a significant increase in the number of women elected to Congress. Since then, the number of women in the House of Representatives and the Senate has steadily increased. Today, there are a record 153 women in the U.S. Congress, including 128 in the House of Representatives and 25 in the Senate. Despite these advances, women remain a minority in Congress, making up approximately 28% of the total membership.
In addition to legislative roles, women are increasingly holding key leadership positions in American politics, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and current Vice President Kamala Harris. Women are also being appointed to the Supreme Court and holding key positions in presidential cabinets.
Despite great progress over the past 104 years, women, especially women of color and marginalized groups, remain underrepresented in American politics. Women in politics have traditionally faced unique challenges, including gender bias, stereotypes, and unequal access to campaign funding and political networks. However, 2024 appears to be a turning point as Kamala Harris seeks to become the first female president of the United States.
Female politicians like Harris often advocate for policies related to gender equality, reproductive rights, health care, education, and family leave. They contribute different perspectives on a variety of issues, influencing decisions on economic policy, national security, and international relations.
Overall, the role of women in American politics has expanded significantly, although there is still progress to be made toward full gender equality in political representation. However, this year seems different, and there is good reason to believe that the role of women in American politics may soon reach its peak with the election of a woman as president.
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