Yesterday, I was honored with the opportunity to speak about the General Federation of Womens Clubs and the New Jersey Federation to a group of women in South Plainfield. I have to admit that I loved talking about an organization of women rich in history - but more importantly rich in making a difference in their communities - in South Plainfield...in New Jersey...in the United States and in the world. The club had about 5-6 brand new members who never really knew about how GFWC began - how one woman - Jane Cunningham Croley, who, in 1868 was forbidden to hear Charles Dickens speak because she was unable to attend a dinner at an all male press club. And by 1890 had created an all women volunteer organization dedicated to unite women together so they can attain their potential and raise their status in society by creating great communities where women fought for social change. These ladies listened intently about how in 1898 the GFWC passed a resolution against Child Labor, how the New Jersey Federation was busy in 1900 saving the Palisades from destruction and how they continue to help lead that charge. These ladies took notice when I proudly told them that GFWC Womens clubs established 474 free public libraries in 1904. In 1906, women around the country turned the tide on the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act. In 1910 they were working to support the 8 hour workday, prison reform and workplace safety. And in 1918 the New Jersey Federation founded the New Jersey College for Women of Rutgers, formally known as Douglass College. All of this accomplished (and so much more) before women had the right to vote. At the end of my talk, one new club member stood up and said, I love history and this was fascinating, and I am so thrilled to now be a part of this organization. But, why is it that I have never read about a single accomplishment of these women in my history books? Good question - and the answer I come up with which has nothing to be about whether you are a GFWC member or not - We were the change we wanted to see in the world, and women continue to be that. But, now that we know about the story of women creating change, we need to tell it. Not because we are prideful, but because women helped to make our country great. And we used our voices in a powerful way because we led with what was important to ourselves, our families and our futures. They were not bound by political chains or ideas, but bound by what was good for all. Can we re-write history books - No, but we can tell our stories to everyone we meet. I for one will tell my nieces, my nephews my grandchildren and my friends. Will you?
Posted on: Fri, 07 Nov 2014 21:19:53 +0000
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