Us Congress House Bill HR1109

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/26/24
• Refer: 3/26/24

Caption

Recognizing the historic Woman Suffrage Procession of 1913 and honoring the courageous suffragists who fought tirelessly for women's right to vote.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the continued relevance of the women’s suffrage movement in today’s context, particularly regarding ongoing challenges to voting access and rights. It calls for the reaffirmation of commitment to protecting voting rights for everyone, regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status. By formally recognizing this event, Congress seeks to highlight the need for systemic changes to ensure equitable access to the ballot and to dismantle barriers that still exist against marginalized groups, including women of color.

Summary

HR1109 is a resolution that recognizes the historic Woman Suffrage Procession of 1913 and honors the courageous suffragists who fought for women's right to vote. This event, which saw thousands of women march through the streets of Washington, D.C., was pivotal in galvanizing support for the suffrage movement and the eventual passage of the 19th Amendment. The bill underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating this significant moment in American history, which not only advanced women's rights but also drew attention to the broader struggle for universal voting rights, especially for marginalized communities.

Contention

HR1109, while largely uncontroversial as a commemorative resolution, indirectly acknowledges the profound social changes spurred by the suffrage movement and the lasting inequalities that persist. The discourse around the need for legislative action to protect voting rights can draw different responses among lawmakers, particularly regarding how to approach voter access and potential voter suppression measures. By invoking the legacy of the suffragists, the bill implicitly urges a re-examination of current voting policies that may disenfranchise certain populations, thus opening a conversation that may lead to legislative action in protecting democratic participation.