Celebrate Women’s History Month March 13th
Historic Reenactment of the first U.S. Women’s Rights Convention

In 1848, American women had few rights. They were prohibited from inheriting property, signing contracts, serving on juries, and voting in elections. Employment opportunities were limited to a few service-related jobs for which women were paid only about half as much as men.

In an effort to improve their lives, a group of women held a “Women’s Rights Convention” in Seneca Falls, New York, on July 19 and 20. There were 300 women and men in attendance to discuss the social, civil, and religious rights of women—the start of the women’s rights movement in the United States.

Courageous organizers of the convention included Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, Martha Wright, and Mary Ann McClintock. See a portion of the Declaration of Sentiments, written by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, which was debated at the convention and was signed by a number of the attendees, on page 3 of this newsletter.

In honor of Women’s History Month in March, a reenactment of this convention will be presented on Saturday, March 13, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Fine Arts Auditorium on the campus of Northwestern Michigan College, Traverse City.

Members of the audience are invited to dress in the time period of their favorite historical or role model woman and, if they wish, share why they chose this person.

The performance is free; donations are welcome. Refreshments will be served.
For more information, call: 231 995-1065.