Women's Equality Day: One piece at a time

August 26th is a significant day every year because it signifies the adversity and resilience that women throughout history have persevered through to have equal rights as men -- not only in the civilian sector but also in the military.

Women’s Equality Day legislation was created in 1971 by Representative Bella Abzug. The resolution was passed in 1973 and commemorates the 19^th Amendment of the Constitution, which gave women the right to vote in 1920. Although a century has passed since the amendment was ratified, it’s crucial to note that it also took a century of campaigning by reformers and activists to push for this right.  

Master Sgt. Mayursinh Jadeja, who was born in India and raised in metropolitan Detroit later in his childhood, said he was never taught about the significance of the day. He believes it’s imperative that everyone understands the magnitude of the day.

“I think everyone should take a moment to reflect on the significance of this day,” he said. “We all have grandmothers, mothers, sisters, aunts, or female mentors who have been a significant contributor to our success. Having two older sisters who were major pieces of my transformation as a man and watching them both contribute to society and be leaders in their respective careers and communities is so inspiring to me. I couldn’t imagine living in a world where they did not have the same opportunities and basic rights as me just because they are women. So often historical achievements are not talked about as time moves on, but it can be done by educating ourselves, communicating with others, and continuously celebrating the achievements of those past leaders who stood up for change.”

Although Women’s Equality Day was designated by the U.S. Congress before Master Sgt. Jadeja was born, the shared experience of becoming more aware of the meaning behind the day is a chance to talk about the history, the continued progress that still needs to be advocated, and for people to stop and reflect about why it’s celebrated.

“Let us celebrate Women’s Equality Day as a significant turning point for Women’s basic rights in our nation’s history,” he said. “When I first joined the Air Force, I didn’t personally see many females in leadership positions, but as time progressed, I met and was mentored by so many.  I had the opportunity to meet retired Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass and I was absolutely inspired by her leadership and care of each member she encountered. Women’s Equality Day inspires the ongoing advancement of progress toward equality. A major advancement towards this equality was done in 2016 when the Pentagon removed the policy that denied women the opportunity to serve in combat positions. The continued struggle for equality in the workplace and in public life is one that all members of society should come together and advocate for. By coming together, we can ensure that the future generations understand that significant progress has been made, but continued hard work and advocation needs to take place indefinitely.”