About MWHC
Suffrage100MA originated in 2010 and was dedicated to commemorating the 100th anniversary of the adoption of the 19th Amendment, which prohibits the federal and state governments from denying citizens the right to vote on the basis of sex. We strived to share the history of the 72-year suffrage struggle by thousands of suffragists, including the tireless work and essential contributions of women of color who were often excluded by white women’s suffrage organizations, and whose role in the suffrage movement has been largely overlooked. We highlighted that while the 19th Amendment did not discriminate, other laws prevented many from voting, including Black, Native American, and Asian American communities, who would not receive enfranchisement until after the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and other crucial legal victories. Our goal was to inspire the public and future generations to appreciate and exercise their right to vote, and to pay attention to changes and challenges to voting rights.
With the centennial behind us, Suffrage100MA evaluated whether to continue its work, and concluded that the work is not done! Women continue to need to strive for equality, women’s history is generally not known by the public, voting rights are under attack, and young children need to learn and be inspired by women’s incredible achievements and contributions - despite significant barriers to their success.
On March 22, 2024, Suffrage100MA became the (virtual at first) Massachusetts Women’s History Center (MWHC) with its flagship program: the Massachusetts Women’s Hall of Fame (MWHOF)! The MWHC builds on Suffrage100MA’s work telling the inclusive stories of the suffragists and expanding to share inspiring historical and educational information about the important contributions and challenges endured by Massachusetts women and other gender identities subjected to restrictive women’s laws, of all backgrounds over the centuries, and of major milestones in MA women’s history. The MWHC celebrates the broad diversity of activists in the legacy of women’s rights, spanning a wide range of racial, ethnic, and gender identities and socioeconomic status.
A goal is to amplify this history and to advance civics education for current and future generations. The virtual MWHC provides a new collection of exhibits, articles and biographies. The upcoming MWHOF will honor Massachusetts women, past and present, who have made a profound impact. Please see our new website www.MAWomensHistory.org to learn more!