On Women's Equality Day (or as we call it, Women's Inequality Day), we're reflecting on the arduous and ongoing fight for equal rights. 

Pay equity. Maternal healthcare. Reproductive rights. Equal representation in government. Freedom from violence and discrimination. These are just a few of the achievements that, at times, can feel impossibly out of reach. 

In moments like this, we at LWV look back to the women who came before us for inspiration. From the Haudenosaunee women who influenced American democracy, to founding mothers like Abigail Adams, to groundbreakers like (League member!) Shirley Chisholm, their unwavering advocacy in the face of war, racial oppression, violence, incarceration, and voicelessness in the electoral process can teach us many lessons. 

This is why we're so proud to be a part of a historic effort recognizing their work: the creation of the first monument on the National Mall dedicated to American women's history.  

What is the Women's Suffrage National Monument? 

The Women's Suffrage National Monument began as a celebration of the centennial of the 19th Amendment, which granted (some) women the right to vote. Notably, Black and brown women were still excluded from the ballot until the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. 

In 2020, President Trump signed Public Law 116-217, which set in motion the construction of a national monument honoring "the great women of American history." In 2024, President Biden signed another law that cleared the way for the monument to be built on the National Mall. Notably, in this era of extreme political division (particularly among supporters of the aforementioned administrations), the monument's origins are bipartisan. 

Why does a monument matter? To start, it addresses an enormous gap in women's representation in our national story. As of 2026, there are 22 commemorative works on the National Mall dedicated to singular men, not to mention the abundant male representation in other monuments. There are 0 for women. 

This reality reflects women's low representation in the federal government and other positions of power. In the 19^th Congress, women hold roughly a quarter of the seats despite making up 50% of the US population and holding enormous voting power. In history books, women's stories are often told in the margins, treated as "special interest" stories rather than essential parts of the American narrative. 

Chances are, the ratio of men to women we learned about is pretty stark – even for those of us invested in women's history. 

The League and the National Monument 

As a century-strong nonprofit founded by suffragists just before the passage of the 19th Amendment, the League is proud to be an official partner in the creation of the monument. As such, LWV will receive recognition on the monument when it is finally unveiled. 

Support the Monument's Creation!

From our partnerships with those telling women's stories, like the creators of Suffs, to our own reflections on women's history, LWV is committed to remembering and honoring the advocates who came before us. This monument is a historic step towards women's recognition. 

How Can You Support the Monument? 

The Monument is expected to be unveiled in 2032, though an exact date is to be determined. There are many ways you can get involved! 

• Submit your monumental idea! The monument is being co-created by people nationwide; if you have ideas about how it should look, you are encouraged to submit them. 
• Support the building of this historic monument with a tax-deductible donation! If you’re asked to provide a designation, please select “League of Women Voters.” Donate here! 
• Show your support with merch! The monument shop has puzzles, baseball caps, and much more, many of which feature a beautiful sunflower design. 
• Stay up to date with the progress of the monument and LWV!