Never Underestimate the Power of One Small Group |
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Columns - Making It in the USA | |||
Monday, 26 November 2007 05:02 | |||
Eighty-seven years ago on Aug. 19, 1920, the 19th Amendment was ratified and became a reality seven days later. This all happened because of the effort of one raw-boned, determined pioneering lady who lived in the small gold mining town named South Pass City, Wyoming. The lady's name was Esther Hobart Morris. In January of 1869, when the legislature was in session, Esther traveled to Cheyenne to have her suffrage proposal heard by the State Congress. Because of the lack of hotels, many folks had to stay in rooming houses. Several of these houses were operated by "Madams." Esther rented a room at one of such rooming houses. Each morning she would trudge to the capitol building, come home each night sad and dejected. After a few such days, the "Madam" felt sorry for Esther when she found out the reason for the lobbyist's sadness. Esther was trying to meet with certain senators and congressmen who held responsible positions so she could present her proposal but no one had given her the time of day. When Esther gave the "Madam" the names of these legislators, the Madam’s face brightened up and said, "I know all of these men and we are on a first-name basis. I believe I can help you." The "Madam" arranged a tea party and all these prominent congressmen were all invited and in attendance and Esther presented her Women's Suffrage Proposal. Because of this delicate situation, every congressman agreed to act upon Esther's proposal. In December of 1869, Wyoming became the first state in the Union to grant women the right to vote. Never underestimate the power of one woman. Never underestimate the power of one small group. It is not only what you do, but also what you don't do, for which you are accountable. Editor’s Note: Filipino-American community leaders Marilyn R. Donato and Antonio Donato have joined the 80-20 as Family Life Members. They live in Virginia. Ms. Marilyn is mentioned in the Food Section of this web site. She is a dietitian and the author of a very popular cookbook, "Philippine Cooking in America." She has her own web site, www.philamcookbook.com. Please join us or renew your membership now. I will match your membership dues as donations to the 80-20 within one week of Dec. 2, 2007. Unity Is Power. Kathleen To - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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Last Updated on Sunday, 27 January 2008 16:52 |
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