Community Round Table Sparks Crucial Dialogue on LGBTQ+ Rights in Pennsylvania 

On Wednesday, July 23, the LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County hosted a powerful and timely round table discussion at the Chester County History Center. The evening brought together a dynamic panel of advocates and local leaders, including Carrie Stare (President, LGBT Equality Alliance), Jason Landau Goodman (PA Youth Congress), Naiymah Sanchez (ACLU of Pennsylvania), and Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell and Marian Moskowitz. 

The event was designed to spotlight the state of LGBTQ+ rights in Pennsylvania—highlighting both progress and persistent challenges—and to offer actionable insights for community members and allies. 

Key Discussion Topics: 

1. Legal Protections and Legislative Gaps 
Panelists reviewed the current protections afforded to LGBTQ+ individuals under Pennsylvania law, noting significant gaps that still leave many vulnerable to discrimination, particularly in housing, education, and public accommodations. The group explored pending legislation in the State House and Senate, ranging from affirming bills to those that could potentially restrict LGBTQ+ rights, especially for transgender youth. 

2. Impact of Federal Policies on Local Families 
Recent presidential executive orders limiting gender-affirming care for minors were a major concern. Speakers discussed how these directives, while not directly altering Pennsylvania state law, could influence state-level policies and public sentiment—placing additional strain on families and healthcare providers navigating care options for transgender youth. 

3. The Importance of Inclusive Protections 
Participants emphasized why anti-discrimination protections in schools, workplaces, and public spaces are essential—not just for safety, but for the dignity and mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals. The message was clear: protections are not privileges; they are a matter of basic human rights. 

4. Access to Gender-Affirming Care 
While gender-affirming care remains legal in Pennsylvania, speakers acknowledged growing barriers, including misinformation, limited provider access, and increasing social stigma. Support systems, including legal advocacy and community resources, are vital in ensuring care remains available. 

5. Effective Advocacy in Action 
The panel shared stories of impactful activism both locally and nationally. From youth-led initiatives to coalition building with lawmakers and educators, these efforts demonstrate that change is possible when communities come together with a shared purpose. The most successful advocacy, they noted, is grounded in lived experience, consistent messaging, and grassroots support. 

6. Allyship and Community Support 
Attendees learned practical ways to become better allies—whether by showing up at public meetings, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, or simply challenging harmful rhetoric in everyday conversations. Education, empathy, and courage are key to standing in solidarity. 

7. Combating Misinformation and Politicized Narratives 
One recurring theme was the damaging role of misinformation in shaping public opinion around transgender care. The panel called for transparent communication, storytelling from affected families, and collaboration with media and educational institutions to counteract fear-based narratives. 

8. Intersectionality and Structural Barriers 
Next, the panelists held an important conversation about how race, immigration status, disability, and socioeconomic backgrounds can compound the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Intersectionality must be central to any discussion on policy reform and public service accessibility. 

A Powerful Closing Conversation 

We closed the evening with questions from the audience—an inspiring reminder of the community’s commitment to learning, engagement, and action. We were so thankful for the many engaged participants, including high school and college students, religious leaders, business owners, school board candidates, and Chester County employees. 

Their thoughtful questions reflected a shared concern for how to move forward in today’s difficult political climate. The overall message from our panelists was clear and hopeful: 

Get active in a way that feels meaningful to you. Share accurate information with friends and family. And above all, stay connected—because we are stronger together. 

Gratitude and Acknowledgements 

The LGBT Equality Alliance would like to extend sincere thanks to Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell and Marian Moskowitz for their partnership on this important event. Special thanks to Beth Angiulo from Commissioner Maxwell’s office and Deb Leach from Commissioner Moskowitz’s office for coordinating event logistics and securing giveaway prizes for attendees. 

We are also deeply grateful to Conor Hepp and the dedicated staff of the Chester County History Center for hosting the event, offering refreshments, and creating a welcoming, safe environment for open dialogue. 

 

Stay Connected 

As we continue the fight for equality, we invite community members to stay engaged. The LGBT Equality Alliance will be organizing future advocacy efforts—both in Chester County and in Harrisburg. Whether you're a lifelong activist or just beginning your journey, there’s a place for you in this work. 

Join us as we move forward together—toward justice, visibility, and lasting change. 

By Ronna Dewey, LGBTEA board member and Advocacy chair

Why Access to Gender-Affirming Care and Crisis Support for LGBTQIA+ Youth Matters—And How You Can Help

At the Equality Alliance, we believe everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported in their own community. That includes making sure LGBTQIA+ youth—especially trans and nonbinary young people—can access care that affirms who they are and protects their mental health.

Right now, that safety net is under threat. The recent decision by the Trump administration to shut down the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services program by July 17, 2025, will remove a lifeline that has served over 1.3 million young people in crisis (The Trevor Project, 2025). That hotline isn’t just a phone number. It’s trained counselors who understand the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ youth face. It’s someone saying: “You’re not alone. You matter. We want you here.”

Why does this matter so much?

Because LGBTQIA+ youth are at much higher risk for suicide than their cisgender peers. This isn’t an accident or something about who they are—it’s the result of social conditions like discrimination, stigma, and being denied care (Jackson, 2023).

Research consistently shows that gender-affirming care—including puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries—can reduce suicidality in trans and nonbinary people (Jackson, 2023). The evidence isn’t perfect; we need even better, long-term studies that control for things like co-occurring mental health conditions. But the trend is clear: when people are affirmed in who they are, they’re safer, healthier, and more hopeful.

So why is there so much debate?

Unfortunately, there’s been an explosion of misinformation and disinformation about gender-affirming care.

  • Misinformation is false or misleading information shared without intending to deceive—like people spreading outdated or incorrect statistics without realizing it.

  • Disinformation is shared with the deliberate intent to deceive or manipulate, often for political gain (Business Insider, 2021).

Both forms of falsehood make it harder for families to get reliable information, for communities to have civil conversations, and for policymakers to make evidence-based decisions.

We know this isn’t just an academic issue. It’s personal. When harmful narratives spread, they shape policy. That’s how we ended up with the shutdown of a crisis hotline designed to save LGBTQIA+ youth lives.

How can you help?

We know our community is caring. If you want to show up for LGBTQIA+ youth and help build a safer, more informed environment, here are a few simple things you can do:

Learn and share reliable information. Before reposting a headline or meme, check the date, the author, and the sources. Look for evidence-based resources—like The Trevor Project or major medical associations.

Listen to LGBTQIA+ people. Center their voices, especially trans and nonbinary youth. Ask how you can support them.

Challenge misinformation gently. If you see a friend or family member sharing misleading claims, try asking questions instead of attacking. “Where did you see that? I read something different—want to take a look together?”

Advocate for policy that protects LGBTQIA+ youth. Contact your representatives. Support funding for mental health services that are inclusive and affirming.

Share resources. The Trevor Project is still providing 24/7 crisis support via phone (1-866-488-7386), text (text START to 678678), or online chat (TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help). Even if federal funding is cut, their counselors will keep showing up for youth in crisis.

At the Equality Alliance, we believe that no young person should feel so alone, unseen, or unsupported that suicide feels like their only option. Every life is precious. Every person deserves respect and care.

Together, we can push back against fear and misinformation with understanding, empathy, and action. Let’s keep doing the work—because our LGBTQIA+ youth are worth it.

—Mary Benton

References:

Pride Was Never a Product

LGBT Equality Alliance’s board president spoke at Indivisible Chester County’s No Kings rally in West Chester on June 14, 2025. Around 6,000 people gathered peacefully lining both sides of High St. to voice their anger with the current administration, their policies and behavior toward immigrants, U.S. citizens, elected officials, and the total disregard of the Constitution and democratic norms.

Here is Carrie’s speech.

My name is Carrie Stare, my pronouns are she/her, and I’m president of LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County.

I know we’re all gathered today under the banner of No Kings, but I do want to say, the only royalty that belongs in this country are drag kings and drag queens!

I want you to journey with me on a little history lesson.

Happy Pride!

Pride is not brought to you by corporations with rainbow logos or limited-edition merchandise releases. Pride is not a marketing campaign. Pride was born from protest, from resistance, from the courage of those who refused to be silent.

Pride is brought to you by Marsha P. Johnson, who is credited with throwing the first brick at Stonewall because the queer community was fed up with being brutalized and beaten.
By Sylvia Rivera, who fought for trans rights when no one else would.
By Audre Lorde, who taught us that our silence will not protect us.
By queer women who stayed by the bedsides of gay men while the AIDS crisis ripped through the gay community and the government refused to act.
By Harvey Milk, who dared to run for office and win.
By Bayard Rustin, who organized for civil rights while living as an openly gay Black man.
By so many others whose names we may never know, but whose bravery echoes in every step we take today.

Pride is not a brand. It’s a legacy. It is our job to protect that legacy and ensure history stops repeating itself because:

They tried to get rid of us in Nazi Germany. 
They tried to get rid of us during the Lavender Scare. 
They tried to get rid of us with AIDS. 
They tried to get rid of us with “therapy.” 

They’re STILL trying to get rid of us by blocking critical healthcare to our transgender siblings. 

But let me tell you something, they have NEVER succeeded because we’re here. 

A world without queer people has never existed and it never will. 

So let’s honor and protect that legacy—not just with parades, not just during the month of June, but with purpose. 

How do you do that? 

Learn how to be an effective ally.
Support queer-owned businesses and grassroots organizations.
Show up for trans rights, for Black and brown queer lives, for youth who are under attack. 
Vote like our rights depend on it—because they do. 
Speak out, even when it’s uncomfortable. 
And never let Pride be reduced to a logo. 

 Because Pride didn’t start with a party. It started with a riot. 

 Let’s carry that spirit forward—with love, with rage, and with action. 

Thank you. Stay proud. Stay loud. And keep fighting. 

8th Annual Chester County PrideFest Returns to Phoenixville

LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County is proud to announce this year’s PrideFest celebration, to be held on June 7, 2025, on Bridge Street in Phoenixville from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. PrideFest, the largest LGBTQIA+ event in Chester County, has welcomed guests of all ages for the last eight years, celebrating diversity and creating welcoming and safe spaces for people in the community. This year’s event will be the biggest yet, celebrating the 10th anniversary of The Equality Alliance. 

Among PrideFest’s expanding entertainment line-up this year are feature performances from queens Roxanne Rohl, Ophelia Hotass, Zephyra Rivers, and Samara LaNegra. The main stage will also feature performances from People’s Light performing arts theater in Malvern. 

Pridefest 2025 will welcome over 175 vendors and community organizations, as well as booths highlighting local queer artists. “PrideFest is more than just a celebration — it’s a powerful voice in the community, an act of solidarity, and a way to connect with others during a time that can feel quite isolating,” says Roberta Perry, Equality Alliance communications director. “Events like this shape a future where every identity is not only acknowledged but wholeheartedly accepted and celebrated.”

Because of the large turnout expected, this year’s PrideFest will offer remote parking options in the borough. Shuttles will be available throughout the event to and from Phoenixville Hospital and Manavon Elementary School.

Everyone is welcome to join this joyous celebration of love, equality, and pride. This is an inclusive, family-friendly event with plenty of things for kids to do in the “Kid’s Court” section, like face painting, sand art, a prize wheel, water ice, and more. Attendees are also encouraged to bring their pets and check out the “Doggie Zone,” a dedicated area for fur babies, to enter the Best Dressed Doggy contest.

After PrideFest, join the LGBT Equality Alliance at the Colonial Theatre on Bridge Street to keep the party going. The afterparty will run from 8:00 p.m. until 11 p.m. and have a $10 cover. This is a 21+ event.

Comitta, LGBT Equality Alliance Announce Mental Health Programs

“At a time when members of the LGBTQ+ community are facing increasing threats, intolerance, and discrimination in our communities, state legislatures, and court system, I hope these programs will help people heal and reinforce the message that ‘you are here, you are welcome, and you are valued Chester Countians and Pennsylvanians,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus.

Read more

We're So Excited

On February 21, the LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County hosted its highly anticipated Love is Love Gala at the Desmond in Malvern. The event, now a beloved annual tradition, served as both a celebration of love and a show of support for the LGBTQ+ community in Chester County—something especially important during these turbulent times. This year’s theme, "Boogie and Bling: A Disco Ball," took the crowd on a fabulous journey back to the 1970s, where glitter, sequins, and funky grooves ruled the dance floor.

Attendees embraced the theme by donning their finest 70s outfits, from bell-bottom pants and platform shoes to sleek white suits and vibrant sequins that sparkled under the lights. Go-go dancers, dressed in dazzling attire, greeted everyone at the door, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Guests entered the ballroom to delicious passed hors d'oeuvres and a spectacular ‘70s soundtrack until dinner was served. 

One of the night's most touching moments was when the Equality Alliance presented its annual awards. This year, two individuals received recognition for their unwavering contributions to the LGBTQ+ community of Chester County—Bridgette Barbera-Byrne received the Community Partner award and Rhys Carter received the Volunteer of the Year award. Board members also shared sentiments about how this event positively impacts the community and what that support means during this uncertain political climate, bringing tears to the eyes of many guests who understand first-hand the importance of equality, inclusivity, and a safe, welcoming space.

The highlight of the night was when Roxanne Rohls and Ophelia Hotass took the stage for an iconic, show-stopping drag performance full of ‘70s and ‘70s-inspired hits that had everyone singing along. As the performance concluded, the dance floor officially opened, and guests of all ages—dressed to the nines in their disco best—hit the floor to dance until the house lights came up. 

The event also featured a silent auction, which brought in over $3,000 for LGBTQ+ services in Chester County. Of course, none of this would be possible without the night’s incredible sponsors Venerable, State Farm, and RE/MAX Main Line, showing their commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for all. A special thank you as well to Matlack Florist, PFLAG, Triton Soap and Skincare, and The Desmond for their in-kind donations that made this event such an incredible success. In total, over $14,000 was raised to support vital resources to members of the LGBTQ+ community in Chester County.

-Laura Preby

LGBT Equality Alliance: 2024 Year in Review

As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on an incredible year of growth, connection, and progress for the LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County. This year has been one of our most impactful yet, thanks to the dedication and passion of our community members, supporters, and volunteers. Here are some highlights from this transformative year:

Major Milestones Achieved

Fundraising: With the support of our generous donors, successful fundraising campaigns, and events, we raised over $60,000 exceeding our financial goals and ensuring continued support for our programs and initiatives.

Leadership: We expanded our board of directors, bringing on dynamic individuals with diverse perspectives and expertise. Their leadership has strengthened our vision and strategic planning.

Event Attendance: A whopping 20,000 people found their way into Phoenixville for PrideFest Chester County 2024.

Programming: This year, we introduced exciting new opportunities to connect and engage, including:

  • Gayme Nights: A fun and inclusive space to unwind and connect with others in the community.

  • Proud Readers Book Club: Offering a platform to explore literature that celebrates and amplifies LGBTQ+ voices.

  • New Support Groups: Providing safe spaces for individuals to share experiences, find resources, and build community.

  • Regular Office Hours: We are pleased to be open on Wednesdays and First Fridays from 3 - 7 p.m. and the last Saturday of the month.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The gains we’ve made in 2024 serve as the foundation of what’s to come. We’re thrilled to announce plans for 2025 that include:

New Events: We’re diversifying our event offerings to ensure there’s something for everyone in our community.

Mental Health Programming: Recognizing the importance of mental wellness, we’ll be launching targeted programs and resources to support mental health.

As we celebrate our successes this year, we also look forward with excitement to the opportunities ahead. Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive future for all.

Thank you for being an essential part of this journey. Here’s to an even brighter 2025!

Transgender Awareness Week

We are not a topic for debate or some headline in the news, we are more…

We are vital members of the communities where we live and work. From delivery drivers and engineers to doctors and retail workers, we contribute in countless ways—but above all, we are human.

As a delivery driver, every interaction with the countless people I meet each day gives me the opportunity to represent not only the company I work for but also the transgender community.

This provides a unique chance to break down barriers, as for some, I may be their first encounter with a transgender individual. It allows me to show that we are dedicated, hardworking, and here to make a difference—just like anyone else.

In a world where misunderstanding and misinformation persist, our visibility as transgender individuals is powerful.

We’re not just here to get by- we’re here to live freely, share our journeys, and encourage others to do more than just exist, but to live.

—Taylor Jade

Our statement about United Sports on October 31, 2024

“Make America Healthy Again: Save Women’s Sports” event being hosted by United Sports in Downingtown:

This event is anti-trans propaganda poorly disguised as “helping spread the word about voting.” The conscious choice United Sports made to host this event is an antithesis of United Sports claim that can be found on their website: “conduct within the facility should be in the spirit of good sportsmanship.” Sportsmanship referencing fair and respectful conduct of others. United Sports has made the decision to host an event that promotes anti-trans rhetoric, promoting beliefs that seek to further hateful rhetoric and harm members of our community. This is not a political rally. And this is not about a political party. This is about denying the humanity and rights of transgender individuals in our community. The choice to host this event shows us United Sports attitude towards its LGBTQ+ patrons and members of the community. Believe their actions. Trans rights are human rights. Make your plan to vote on Tuesday. Community members and patrons who have concerns about USTC hosting this event can send an email to USTC management at TvanBeuren@unitedsports.net.

Every Vote Matters: What’s at Stake for the LGBTQ+ Community this November

The upcoming November election holds significant implications for LGBTQ+ individuals nationally, in Pennsylvania and in Chester County. While the LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County does not endorse or oppose any candidates or parties for office, we feel it is important to educate our community about issues that may affect the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s an overview of what’s at stake for the LGBTQ+ community, ongoing legislative developments and how you can make an impact. 

Project 2025

According to the ACLU, “Project 2025 is a federal policy agenda and blueprint for a radical restructuring of the executive branch authored and published by former Trump administration officials in partnership with The Heritage Foundation, a longstanding conservative think tank that opposes abortion and reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, immigrants’ rights, and racial equity. Project 2025’s largest publication, “Mandate For Leadership,” is a 900-page manual for reorganizing the entire federal government agency by agency to serve a conservative agenda.” Key policy points from Project 2025 include:

  • Reversing or weakening existing LGBTQ+ protections, including efforts to dismantle non-discrimination laws, restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare, and undermine rights related to marriage and family

  • New legislation that targets transgender individuals, restricts their participation in sports, and limits their access to public facilities aligned with their gender identity.

  • Influencing the appointment of judges who are likely to rule in favor of conservative interpretations of the law, which can affect how LGBTQ+ rights are adjudicated. This includes appointing judges to federal courts and state benches who may be less supportive of LGBTQ+ rights.

  • New laws and policies that could increase the likelihood of discrimination and marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender people.

  • Rescinding of new LGBTQ+ Title IX protections and dropping ongoing discrimination investigations. 

Current Legislative Landscape

We know that all of these changes to current protections are possible because of the amount of anti-LGBTQ legislation that has been introduced and/or passed at the state level throughout the country already. In 2024 alone, over 500 anti-LGBTQ bills have been introduced in state legislatures. For example:

  • Several states, including Arkansas and Tennessee, have passed laws restricting access to gender-affirming healthcare for transgender minors. These laws often ban hormone treatments, significantly impacting the well-being of transgender youth.

  • Some states, including Florida, have introduced or passed legislation requiring individuals to use public restrooms that correspond to their sex assigned at birth, rather than their gender identity.

  • Several states, including Mississippi expanded religious exemptions that allow individuals and organizations to refuse services to LGBTQ+ people based on religious beliefs.

Pennsylvania is Not Immune

In 2023, The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed an extension of the state’s anti-discrimination law to protect LGBTQ+ people. The Philadelphia Gay News shared, “The Fairness Act, which would grant statewide anti-discrimination protections to LGBTQ+ people, passed the Pa. House of Representatives in a 102-98 vote. Two Republicans joined 100 Democrats in voting for the bill, HB300, which now heads to the State Senate. It is the first time the bill has passed either legislative chamber in 47 years.” But, the Fairness Act has not been signed into law because the PA State Senate has not even brought the legislation up for discussion due to the political majority of the chamber. Wouldn’t it be great to elect a General Assembly that would protect LGBTQ+ people like the governments in California, Michigan and Minnesota? 

What Can You Do?

  • Keep up with developments related to Project 2025 and other legislative initiatives that impact LGBTQ+ rights. Understanding these issues helps in advocating effectively.

  • Engage with and support organizations like LGBT Equality Alliance that work with and advocate for the  LGBTQ+ community

  • Engage in advocacy efforts, whether through contacting legislators, participating in rallies, or using social media to raise awareness and support for LGBTQ+ rights. Stay tuned for details of our new Advocacy Committee coming soon.

  • Talk to your friends and family about what’s at stake and encourage them to vote. Share this blog with them directly or on social media as a way to open up the conversation.

  • Vote in local, state, and federal elections. PA has an election every year in spring and November. Supporting candidates who advocate for LGBTQ+ rights can help counteract negative impacts from initiatives like Project 2025.

Important Dates:
Deadline to register to vote: Monday, Oct. 21
Deadline to apply for a mail or absentee ballot: 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29
Deadline to return mail or absentee ballot: 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5 (postmarks do not count)
General Election Day: Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 7 am- 8 pm

For more information visit: https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/vote.html

Written by Ronna Dewey, LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County board member at-large

The 19th Amendment: A Complex History and the Ongoing Fight for Equality

A Landmark Achievement

August 18, 1920, marks a pivotal moment in American history: the ratification of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. This landmark achievement was the culmination of decades of tireless advocacy, protests, and civil disobedience by suffragists determined to secure equal voting rights for women. Figures such as Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Alice Paul are often celebrated for their roles in this historic victory.

A Movement Marked by Exclusion

However, the story of the 19th Amendment is also a tale of exclusion and racial discrimination. While white suffragists fought for their rights, they often sidelined and marginalized Black women and other women of color. Prominent suffragists, including some of the movement's most iconic leaders, made strategic decisions to exclude Black women from the movement, fearing that their inclusion would alienate white supporters and politicians.

Black suffragists like Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Mary Church Terrell, and Sojourner Truth faced not only gender discrimination but also the pervasive racism of the time. Despite these barriers, they continued to fight for the right to vote, recognizing that their struggle was intertwined with the broader fight for racial justice.

The Reality of Jim Crow

Even after the 19th Amendment was ratified, many Black women in the South were effectively barred from voting due to Jim Crow laws, literacy tests, poll taxes, and violent intimidation. It wasn't until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that these discriminatory practices were significantly challenged, allowing more Black women to exercise their right to vote.

The Importance of Unity

Today, as we reflect on the history of the 19th Amendment, it's crucial to acknowledge both the achievements and the shortcomings of the suffrage movement. The exclusion of Black women from the movement's successes is a reminder of the importance of intersectionality in the fight for equality.

In the current climate, where women's rights are still under threat, unity among all women is more important than ever. Issues such as reproductive, voting and LGBTQ+ rights, gender pay gaps, domestic violence, and workplace discrimination affect women across all races and backgrounds. By coming together, acknowledging past wrongs, and working towards a more inclusive movement, we can ensure that the rights of all women are protected and advanced.

Moving Forward Together

The fight for women's rights is far from over, and the legacy of the 19th Amendment serves as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale. It reminds us of the power of collective action and the necessity of inclusivity. To honor Black and white suffragists who came before us and to ensure a better future for the next generations, we must stand together, united in our diversity, and committed to justice for all.

As we celebrate the progress made, let us also recognize the work that remains. Let us commit to an inclusive and intersectional approach to women's rights, ensuring that no woman is left behind. By doing so, we honor the full spirit of the 19th Amendment and pave the way for a more equitable and just society.

Conclusion

The history of the 19th Amendment is a complex narrative of triumph and exclusion. As we honor this milestone, we must also commit to addressing the injustices that have persisted. By coming together and supporting each other, regardless of race or background, we can continue to fight for the rights and freedoms that all women deserve.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we can ensure that the hard-won rights of the past are not only preserved but expanded to include and uplift every woman.