2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the Women’s Right to Vote. It’s a time to celebrate where we’ve come, recognize the Black women who fought for but did not win the right to vote until decades later, and reflect on the state of women’s power and influence today.

There’s been great progress, yet the fight for gender equity continues. 

Women still face institutional barriers and are underrepresented in government and leadership positions – especially Black and Brown women who must overcome both racial and gender inequities. And COVID-19 is having a deep and devastating impact on gender and racial equity. Research shows women are losing jobs in greater numbers than men, are doing most of the homeschooling and child-rearing even when both parents are home, and are experiencing a sharp rise in domestic violence. Black and Latinx women, who disproportionately work in service, education and health services sectors, are more likely to suffer economically and lose jobs at a higher rate.

That’s why United Way is launching a gender equity campaign to highlight stories about what it means to be a woman in 2020 and rally women leaders to make their voices heard and be politically engaged in their communities.

At United Way of Greater Fall River, we are also providing access to low cost childcare for families, advocating for voter registration, and supporting after school programs that are educational and high quality for middle school girls.

We are activating our Women United leaders across the country to spotlight the challenges faced by women and take action in the fight for gender equity. Women United is at the forefront of United Way’s movement to build stronger communities. Our women leaders fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. 

We are kicking off the campaign with a Share Your Story call to action to collect powerful stories from women about the challenges and barriers they are facing, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. These stories will be spotlighted in a livestreamed event on September 17 entitled “A Century After Women’s Suffrage: Our Fight for Equity Continues.” The event will be a robust conversation with women leaders and advocates about how to continue the fight for equity and empowerment.

Here are 3 ways that you can take action:

• Share Your Story: We want to hear your story! We know that women are being laid off at a higher rate than men, are juggling work and childcare, and are dealing with increased anxiety, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. Add your voice.
• Join our livestreamed event. The virtual event will take place on September 17 at 2pm-3:15pm ET and will be a robust conversation with women leaders on how to continue to advocate for equity and empowerment. RSVP to join. 
• Register to vote. Join the fight by registering to vote and helping more women cast their ballots in the General Election. Get registered

Together, we will create lasting change to lift up entire communities. Join the fight.