The League of Women Voters of South Hampton Roads recognizes Women’s Equality Day on August 26, 2020, in celebration of the advancements that have been made towards achieving full political, economic, and social equality. The date commemorates the 1920 adoption of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution, which granted voting rights for American women. Women’s Equality Day celebrates the trailblazers, visionaries, and suffragists who have worked towards equal rights for all.

At 10:00AM on Aug. 26, a delegation of League members will hold a wreath-laying ceremony at the grave site of Pauline Adams, one of Norfolk’s own suffragists. Her resting place is in Elmwood Cemetery, 238 E. Princess Anne Road, Norfolk 23510. Mr. Shannon Stafford, Norfolk Society for the Preservation of Cemeteries, will speak on the significance of Adams and others in the 72-year struggle to establish women’s Constitutional right to vote.

Members of the public and the press are welcome, with the understanding that they must wear masks and maintain 6ft of social distancing. Attendees may park around the brick cemetery office building, or along one of the wider roads that allows for other visitors to pass. No restrooms will be available.

"We take this day to reflect on how far we have come and to look towards the future, to see what steps we can take to ensure all women can fulfill their highest potential," says Heather Miller- Tokarz, Co-President of the League of Women Voters of South Hampton Roads. “We had intended to hold this ceremony at the state Historical Highway Marker (KV-21) that honors Pauline Adams. Sadly that marker, located in Norfolk at the intersection of Virginia Beach Boulevard and Llewellyn Avenue, has been destroyed. We hope to see it replaced in the near future.”

"The League was founded in 1920, just months before the 19th Amendment was adopted," says Chris Carson, past-president of the League of Women Voters of the United States. "As we approach the centennial celebration of the 19th Amendment and of the League, I am encouraged by the women leaders who continue in 2020 to advocate for equality for all."

"This year is particularly important to recognize the achievements in the women’s rights movement as we are seeing more female candidates running for office in 2020," says Virginia Kase, CEO of the League of Women Voters of the United States. "Today we acknowledge the women who paved the way."