2020 Marks the Anniversary of three momentous events in voting history.
On February 3, 1870 the 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified giving African American Men the right to vote.
On February 14, 1920 the League of Women Voters was founded.
On August 18, 1920 the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified giving Women the right to vote.
The League of Women Voters was founded in 1920 as a “mighty political experiment” by the foremothers of the suffragist movement at the National Woman Suffrage Association with the goal to help the 20 million women who were granted the vote by the 19th Amendment understand and carry out their new responsibility as voters.
With the success of this effort and the tireless efforts over the last hundred years to strengthen and uphold its mission to empower voters and defend democracy, the League has become a trusted, nonpartisan grassroots organization.
The League has consistently been noted for its nonpartisan election information, including sponsorship of candidate forums and information on state and local ballot issues; as well as its commitment to register, educate and mobilize voters.
For the 2018 local elections the League of Women Voters of St. Mary’s County, Maryland partnered with the St. Mary’s County Branch of the NAACP and the Lexington Park Library to bring candidate forums for both the primary and general elections to the citizens of St. Mary’s County. These were standing room only events and were also broadcast on the County’s Youtube channel.
In addition, we endeavor to hold voter registration events on a regular basis, including at our high schools.
We believe that active and engaged citizens, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or political affiliation are the hallmark of democracy. Important dates for the 2020 Elections in St. Mary’s County:
- 04/16/2020 through 04/23/2020 – Primary Election Early Voting
- 04/28/2020 – Primary Election
- 10/22/2020 – 10/29/2020 – General Election Early Voting
- 11/03/2020 – General Election
We urge all eligible citizens to exercise your right to vote. Remember a mere 150 years ago the right to vote was restricted to white males; through hard fought efforts African American Men (150 years ago) and Women (100 years ago) finally won that same right. Please do not take it for granted. If you are not registered to vote – register.
Congratulations to the League of Women Voters on its 100th Anniversary!
Kathleen M. Werner, Vice-President, League of Women Voters of St. Mary’s County, Maryland
