The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources will commemorate the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage on the grounds of the State Capitol at a kick-off event for “She Changed the World: NC Women Breaking Barriers” Saturday, Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment allowing women the right to vote. However, it was primarily white American women who were granted the right to vote with the 19th Amendment. Women of color, including African American and American Indian women, were largely excluded from suffrage. The campaign focuses on the fight for enfranchisement and the story of North Carolina women past and present who have achieved amazing things in multiple disciplines to help make the world a better place.
As part of a national campaign to commemorate the anniversary, North Carolina’s Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is coordinating a campaign titled “She Changed the World: NC Women Breaking Barriers,” with statewide programming running through November 2020. Learn more about the campaign at https://www.ncdcr.gov/about/featured-programs/she-changed-world-north-carolina-women-breaking-barriers.
From 10-11 a.m., a ceremony featuring prominent North Carolina women will be held to honor women of the past, present, and future. –Throughout the day, vendors, partner organizations, exhibitors, food trucks, and voter registration will be available on the grounds. From 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., our event co-hosts will take the stage, speaking about their individual organizations. Inside the Capitol, the state’s copy of the 19th Amendment will be on display. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on the grounds and watch the ceremony and other groups throughout the day. Come, participate, and learn about inspirational North Carolina women past and present. This is event is free to attend and open to all.
The NC Division of State Historic Sites is a leading partner for this event, and many of our state’s historic sites will be present during the event. Participating co-hosts for this event include the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the NC Council for Women & Youth Involvement, the NC African American Heritage Commission, the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the NC Commission on Indian Affairs, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, American Indian Women of Proud Nations, the National Council of Negro Women, and the League of Women Voters.
The State Capitol’s mission is to preserve and interpret the history, architecture and function of the 1840 building and Union Square. It is within the Division of State Historic Sites within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, and located at One Edenton Street, Raleigh. For additional information please call 919-733-4994 or visit www.nchistoricsites.org/capitol.