Women’s Equality Day is today August 26th, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey women have taken to secure the rights and freedoms we enjoy today. This day isn’t just about celebrating—it’s about remembering the countless women who fought tirelessly for the rights we sometimes take for granted. So, I wanted to share some thoughts on key milestones in this journey, tying them to my own experiences and challenges we still face.
The Women’s Suffrage Movement: Courage That Changed History
Growing up, I often heard about the suffragists—women like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton—who were relentless in their fight for the right to vote. It’s one thing to learn about them in history class, but it’s another to feel the impact of their work when you cast your first vote. The 19th Amendment, passed in 1920, was a monumental achievement, but it’s important to remember that it primarily benefited white women. It wasn’t until much later that women of color were able to vote without significant barriers.
The Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments, written in 1848, really stuck with me. It was bold, demanding equal rights for women, including the right to vote—a radical idea at the time. It made me think about how much these women sacrificed so that future generations, including myself, could have a voice in society. As a mother and a professional, I often feel the same tension between wanting to pursue my ambitions and fulfilling my responsibilities at home, much like the early feminists who fought for the right to be seen and heard.
The Ongoing Battle for Reproductive Rights
Roe v. Wade is one of those landmark decisions that has always felt deeply personal to me. Decided in 1973, it recognized a woman’s right to choose an abortion, framing it as a constitutional right to privacy. This decision was a significant victory for women’s autonomy, allowing us to make decisions about our reproductive health without excessive government interference.
But, as we’ve seen recently, the battle for reproductive rights is far from over. The recent challenges to Roe v. Wade have been a stark reminder that the rights we thought were secured are still vulnerable. Watching these events unfold has been both frustrating and motivating for me, as it highlights the need for continued vigilance in protecting our rights.
Breaking Barriers in Sports
When I first started practicing martial arts, I encountered a lot of skepticism. People would often question my abilities simply because I’m a woman. Learning about the Bennet Sisters, who were some of the first women to make a name for themselves in boxing, gave me a sense of connection to a long line of women who defied societal expectations.
The struggle to be recognized in professional sports wasn’t easy, and in many ways, it still isn’t. It wasn’t until the late 20th century that women were officially admitted into major martial arts and boxing associations, and even today, female athletes continue to fight for equal recognition, pay, and opportunities. But like the women who came before me, I’ve persisted, and now I’m proud to teach self-defense to other women, helping them build the confidence that this world can sometimes try to strip away.
The Fight for Financial Independence and Property Ownership
The stories of women fighting for financial independence have always resonated with me, especially as a solo parent. Before the Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1974, women often needed a male co-signer to take out loans or establish credit. This wasn’t just inconvenient—it was a direct challenge to our independence. I remember the sense of empowerment I felt when I secured my first mortgage on my own, knowing that women before me had to fight for that right.
Similarly, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 was a huge step forward, ensuring that women wouldn’t lose their jobs simply for starting a family. Balancing career and motherhood has been one of my greatest challenges, and this law has provided crucial protection along the way. But even as I celebrate these milestones, I’m reminded that the fight for economic equality is ongoing. It’s about more than just laws—it’s about changing the way society views women’s financial independence.
The Journey Continues
As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day, I’m filled with gratitude for the women who paved the way and motivated by the knowledge that our work isn’t done. The history of women’s equality is more than a series of events—it’s a living, breathing movement that continues to shape our world today.
So, as you go about your day on August 26th, take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the challenges that still lie ahead. Whether it’s through voting, advocating for reproductive rights, breaking barriers in your field, or fighting for financial independence, we all have a role to play in continuing the journey toward full equality.
Thanks for reading, and let’s keep pushing forward together.
Warmly,
Naomi Norelli
Naomi S. Norelli Communications, Content, Digital, Marketing Strategy Leader 
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