Phoenix, Arizona - Governor Doug Ducey and Secretary of State Michele Reagan today recognized the 96th anniversary of women’s suffrage. On August 18, 1920, the following words were ratified into the United States Constitution: “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.” Always the trailblazer, Arizona was one of the first states in the nation to grant women suffrage in 1912.
“As Arizona continues to lead the nation in providing opportunity for all, we’re reminded today of our historic role in securing voting rights for women 104 years ago – a full eight years before women’s suffrage was recognized in the U.S. Constitution,” said Governor Ducey. “This election year, as Arizonans cast their ballots, let’s reflect on our trailblazing efforts to ensure voting equality, and honor those Arizonans who fought hard for it along the way. Let’s not take for granted this fundamental right, and the tireless efforts of those early pioneers.”
“As Secretary of State, I take great pride in the fact that I have the privilege of serving a state with a rich history of empowering women,” said Secretary Reagan. “Historically, Arizona has been a catalyst of justice and equality for all – from becoming one of the first states to recognize a woman’s right to vote, to sending the first woman to the U.S. Supreme Court, to having more women governors than any other state in the nation. Today, all voters honor the Arizona spirit that paved the way for women everywhere.”