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NYS kicks off Women's History Month with salute to suffragists

Office of the Lt. Governor
Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul (center) kicks off Women's History Month in Albany.

New York kicked off Women’s History Month at a special event in Albany. Each March, it honors the leadership of women who pave the way for others. However, this year is particularly special because it also commemorates the 100th Anniversary of Women's Suffrage in the United States.

"For the countless women before 1917 who never realized that they had a voice in electing their leaders, we – the nearly 10 million women of NY in 2020 – are their voices," said Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, who chairs the New York State Women’s Suffrage Commission.

Hochul noted that New York launched a statewide effort to honor "the brave suffragettes and their sacrifices." To see a full list of events, click here.

Among those events in Western New York is "The Art of Suffrage," currently underway at the Kenan Center in Lockport. On March 31, its commemoration will present "Susan B. Anthony: A One Woman's Show" in the Taylor Theatre. Susan B. Anthony was among the New York women of the time who dedicated their lives to women's rights and other social justice issues.

The New York State Association of Counties has also joined the celebration. During the month, NYSAC will recognize the contributions of women in New York county government and encourage counties across the state to pass resolutions honoring the 100th anniversary of a woman's right to vote.

“NYSAC honors the contributions of women, past and present, who fought to have their voices heard and to secure greater equality for themselves and future generations,” said NYSAC President Jack Marren. “This Women’s History Month, we’re recognizing that legacy and the many women who have worked to promote equality.”

Marren said New York was the epicenter of the women’s rights movement that spread across the nation.

"On July 13 of 1848, activist Jane Hunt hosted Lucretia Mott, Martha Wright, Mary Ann M’Clintock and Elizabeth Cady Stanton at her home for tea where they discussed the injustices faced by women and decided to fight for change," he said. "Six days later, the women’s rights movement was born at the Seneca Falls Convention. 

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