Skip to main content

Westerman Honors 19th Amendment Centennial

May 21, 2019

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) gave the following speech to the House of Representatives, in honor of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment:

"Madame Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and the efforts of the women's suffrage movement in the United States.

"Susan B. Anthony once said, ‘Oh if I could but live another century and see the fruition of all the work for women! There is so much yet to be done.' Now that we stand on the other side of that century, it is only fitting that we honor the suffragettes who paved the way for millions of women to vote and hold public office.

"By a vote of 74-15, my home state of Arkansas became the 12th state to ratify the 19th Amendment. I'd like to specifically recognize Ms. Hattie Wyatt Caraway from Jonesboro, Arkansas, the first woman to ever be elected to the United States Senate, and whose portrait is prominently displayed outside the Senate chamber.

"A truly representative democracy necessitates that all voices be heard, and the 19th Amendment signified a turning point in government. America's legacy of strong women continues on today in the lives of each woman who casts a ballot and runs for office. I am honored to serve alongside many of these women.

"Madame Speaker, I yield back."

Click here to watch the full speech.

Background

The 19th Amendment states, "The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."

The amendment passed the House of Representatives on May 21, 1919.