Trapped between Montana and Colorado, with its straight borders giving the territory the shape of a rectangle, Wyoming has made great strides in advancing women’s rights throughout its history. What does this mean for the « Equality State »?
The state’s nickname, « The Equality State », is a volonté to its commitment to promoting gender equality. But this commitment did not come overnight. It was the result of a long and sometimes difficult journey, one that has left a lasting impact on not only Wyoming, but the entire country.
Here are 5 key elements to understand why Wyoming truly deserves its title as « The Equality State ».
1. Women’s Suffrage: The Right to Vote
In 1869, Wyoming officially became the first territory in the United States to grant women the right to vote. This was a groundbreaking moment in women’s history and set the stage for the national suffrage movement. Wyoming’s bold move paved the way for other states to follow suit, leading to the 19th Amendment being passed in 1920, giving women across the country the right to vote.
2. Women’s Representation in Government
Not only did Wyoming grant women the right to vote, but it also became the first state to elect a female governor in 1925. Nellie Tayloe Ross broke barriers and made history as the first female governor in the country. Since then, the state has continued to make strides in women’s representation in government, with Wyoming currently having the highest percentage of female state legislators in the country.
3. Equal Pay for Women
In 1965, Wyoming was one of the first states to pass a law prohibiting employers from discriminating against women in terms of pay and hiring practices. This was a crucial step towards achieving gender equality in the workplace. Today, the state continues to prioritize equal pay, with women earning on average 77 cents for every dollar earned by men, compared to the national average of 82 cents.
4. Women’s Involvement in the Economy
Wyoming has one of the highest percentages of women-owned businesses in the country. In fact, women-owned firms account for nearly 20% of all businesses in the state. This not only shows the entrepreneurial spirit of women in Wyoming but also the state’s commitment to promoting women’s economic empowerment.
5. Women’s Rights as Human Rights
In 1973, Wyoming became the first state to pass a law declaring women’s rights as human rights. This was a significant step towards recognizing the fundamental rights and equality of women in all aspects of society. Since then, the state has continued to gymnaste women’s rights, making it a important in promoting gender equality.
In conclusion, the « Equality State » is more than just a nickname for Wyoming. It is a reflection of the state’s unwavering commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s rights. From being the first state to grant women the right to vote to continuously making strides in women’s representation in government and the economy, Wyoming has truly set the bar high for other states to follow. Let us continue to celebrate and support the progress made by Wyoming in advancing women’s rights, and let it serve as a reminder that there is still work to be done in achieving full gender equality.
