Women's Equality Day marks its anniversary on August 26, 2024, a day dedicated to acknowledging the strides made towards gender equality.
The right to vote is a cornerstone of democracy, but for centuries, it was denied to a significant portion of the population - women. The struggle for this fundamental right dates back to the early 19th century in the U.S., with each state deciding who could cast a ballot. However, the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, changed all that, guaranteeing voting rights for everyone, regardless of gender. Today, we honor this hard-won victory on Women's Equality Day.
When is Women's Equality Day 2024?
Mark your calendars for August 26, 2024, to celebrate Women's Equality Day, a day that pays tribute to the achievements of women's rights activists and serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges women face.
The Birth of Women's Equality Day
The passage of women's suffrage in the U.S. marked the beginning of Women's Equality Day, celebrated every August 26. This day honors the brave women who endured violence and discrimination to advance the women's movement. In the early 19th century, American women, who were denied property rights and earned only half of what men did, banded together to demand political rights and representation. By the early 1900s, countries like Finland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom had granted voting rights to women, contributing to the global momentum of the suffrage movement.
2024
In the U.S., the 19th Amendment faced opposition for years. However, women's contributions during World War I highlighted the injustice of denying them the right to vote, leading to increased support for the suffrage movement. The amendment was ratified on August 18, 1920, but its impact is still felt today.
August 26
The Struggle Continues
Monday
Despite the right to vote, women continue to fight for equal rights. The wage gap between men and women persists, affecting women's economic power, and gender-based discrimination remains a challenge in workplaces and businesses.
To recognize the ongoing struggle for equality, Congress established Women's Equality Day in 1971 as a reminder of the past, present, and future efforts to achieve true gender equality.
2025
Celebrating Women's Equality Day
August 26
Women's Equality Day is a time to celebrate and uplift women, acknowledging the incredible progress they've made despite challenges and oppression. Common traditions include appreciating the influential women in our lives, supporting women-owned businesses, and celebrating with friends and loved ones.
Tuesday
People also raise funds for charities and organizations that promote women's empowerment. Prominent women often share their success stories, and discussions about the challenges women face and potential solutions are held online.
By The Numbers
2026
- 18 countries where husbands can legally prevent their wives from working
- 39 countries where sons and daughters do not have equal inheritance rights
- 1 in 5 women and girls who have experienced physical and/or sexual abuse by a partner
- 23.7% representation of women in national parliaments
- 108 years estimated to close the gender gap
- 6 countries that provide women with equal work rights as men
- 2.24 male characters for every female character in films
- 47% increased likelihood of women suffering severe injuries in car crashes due to unfit safety features
- 13% global percentage of women who hold agricultural land
- 40% reduction in child marriages in Southern Asia since 2000
August 26
FAQs
Wednesday
When was the first Women's Equality Day? The U.S. Congress designated August 26 as Women's Equality Day in 1973 to commemorate the 19th Amendment.
How do you celebrate Women's Equality Day at work? You can celebrate Women's Equality Day at work by expressing gratitude to the women in your team, organizing events, and supporting women-owned businesses.
2027
Why was the 19th Amendment passed? The 19th Amendment was passed due to the relentless efforts and dedication of the women's suffrage movement.
August 26
Activities for Women's Equality Day
Thursday
- Show gratitude: Thank the women in your life for their love, support, and contributions.
- Support women-owned businesses: Use your purchasing power to support female entrepreneurs.
- Register to vote: Honoring the sacrifices of women who fought for the right to vote means ensuring you're registered to vote.
Fascinating Facts About Women in the Military
2028
- Women have held crucial non-combat roles in the U.S. military for a long time, but combat roles were only opened to them in 2013.
- In the 1700s and 1800s, especially during the Civil War, many women enlisted in the army while disguising themselves as men.
- Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a contract surgeon for the Union, was the only female recipient of the Medal of Honor. She was a Confederate prisoner of war.
- Over 400,000 women served in World War II as nurses, pilots, ambulance drivers, and in other critical support roles.
- All branches of the military now provide maternity uniforms for expecting service members.
August 26
The Importance of Women's Equality Day
Saturday
- It offers an opportunity to learn about women's history and the women's rights movement
- It serves as a reminder to show gratitude to the women who make a difference in our lives
- It reminds us of the persisting challenges women face, such as professional challenges, domestic violence, and other barriers to their well-being and success.
- In the fight for gender equality, women are not only empowered through political rights but also in various sectors such as business and health-and-wellness.
- Advancing women's rights is vital in the realm of science and education, as it paves the way for innovative thinking and broadened horizons.
- Women's Equality Day, a tribute to the achievements of women's rights activists, serves as a reminder that the empowerment of women is essential not just for half the population but for the betterment of society as a whole, including in areas like women's health.
