CONTENT WARNING
Materials in the Library of Virginia’s collections contain historical terms, phrases, and images that are offensive to modern readers. These include demeaning and dehumanizing references to race, ethnicity, and nationality; enslaved or free status; physical and mental ability; and gender and sexual orientation.
Context
The broadside image is that of Equal Suffrage League of Virginia (ESL) which was founded in 1909 in Richmond. The ESL became one of the most influential suffrage organizations in the country. Among the twenty founding women, co-founder, women’s suffrage activist, education reformer, and advocate for improved public-health , Lila Meade Valentine of Richmond was elected the league's first president. The league's members included several prominent suffragists including: Ellen Glasgow, Mary Johnston, Adéle Clark, Nora Houston, and Dr. Katherine Waller Barrett. The recruitment of new members initially proved difficult. Among the obstacles league members faced were the objections of fathers to their daughters and wives participating in the league and women who may have lacked knowledge or who disagreed with the concept of women’s suffrage. However, during the league's first year almost 120 members joined. Many of the women who joined in that first year were residents of Richmond.
From the beginning the ESL faced similar challenges that well-established organizations, such as the National American Woman Suffrage Association had encountered. The need for an education campaign to bring public awareness and understanding of the importance of suffrage became a mission for the ESL. As part of an effort to spread the word for woman suffrage, member and writer Mary Johnston spoke at women's colleges, and Lila Valentine gave more than 100 speeches across Virginia encouraging suffrage support. Other members did their part by visiting schools, fairs, and union meetings. They also distributed informational materials on city streets. Their strategies worked. By 1911, membership had grown to 290, and by 1919 to 30,000 with numerous branches across Virginia.
Citation: Equal Suffrage League of Virginia. Women do want the vote: these women have said so. Richmond, Va.: The League, 1916, Broadside 1916 .W66 BOX, Lab #08_1139_19, Manuscripts & Special Collections, Library of Virginia.
Standards
Suggested Questions
Preview Activity
Analyze: Look at the list of organizations on the broadside. What do these organizations have in common, other than support for the suffrage movement? How are these organizations different? Why would these organizations support woman suffrage?
Post Activities
Take a Stand: Imagine you are an early supporter of voting rights for women. What arguments would you make to convince someone to support the movement?
Current Connection: There are many women’s organizations active in the United States today. Why do you think they are or are not necessary? What contributions might these organizations make in the 21st Century?
Artistic Expression: Recreate the broadside in a different style. Think of how presentation might make a difference in attracting members today.