TENAFLY—The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley (LWVNV) and the Borough of Tenafly will celebrate women’s voting rights and honor the life and legacy of American suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton on Sunday, Sept. 29 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Tenafly Borough Hall, 100 Riveredge Road.
The event, hosted by the Borough of Tenafly Mayor and Council and sponsored by the LWVNV, aims to commemorate the impact of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote, and to highlight the contributions of American women in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
The celebration will feature several notable speakers, each bringing a unique perspective to the historical significance of the women’s suffrage movement:
- Coline Jenkins, the great-great-granddaughter of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, will offer insights into Stanton’s life and her pioneering role in the fight for women’s rights. Jenkins will discuss the significance of the Seneca Falls Convention of July 1848, the first women’s rights convention held in Seneca Falls, New York, which marked the beginning of the women’s suffrage movement in the United States.
- Tenafly Councilwoman Dr. Julie O’Connor will ceremonially read the Sister City Declarations of Tenafly, New Jersey, and Seneca Falls, New York, underscoring the connection between these two historic communities that share a commitment to women’s rights and civic engagement.
- Former New Jersey State Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg, known for her advocacy for women’s rights and social justice throughout her political career, will speak about the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of political participation.
- New Jersey State Assemblywoman Shama Haider of the 37th Legislative District will address the audience, likely highlighting her own experiences and the importance of diverse representation in government.
- Tomasina Schwarz, President of the LWVNV, will present the League’s objectives, its history since its founding in 1920 as an outgrowth of the 19th Amendment, and its ongoing efforts to promote civic engagement and voter participation through its ‘Get Out the Vote’ campaign.
In addition to the speaker program, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with several activities designed to educate and inspire. A “Kahoot” trivia game on women’s history will challenge guests’ knowledge, with prizes awarded to the winners.
The LWVNV will also provide voter registration services and information on how to become a member, emphasizing the importance of informed and active participation in government. Visitors can explore display tables from nonprofit organizations, gathering valuable resources and learning about various community initiatives.
Refreshments will be served throughout the event, encouraging guests to mingle, discuss, and reflect on the progress and future of women’s rights. The celebration promises a meaningful afternoon, connecting past achievements with present challenges and future goals for equality.
The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, a nonpartisan grassroots organization, has a storied history of promoting civic engagement and public education. Founded in 1946 as the League of Women Voters of Closter, the organization was renamed in 1964 to reflect its expanded service area, which now includes 29 municipalities in Bergen County. The LWVNV conducts a variety of voter services and educational programs year-round, including candidates’ forums, registration drives, and public meetings on key policy issues.
For more information about the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley and its programs, visit the chapter’s webpage or contact lwvnorthernvalley@gmail.com.