Women4Change Indiana is an inclusive, nonpartisan, grassroots organization that works to promote health, safety, and respect for all Hoosiers. At the turn of the century, women in Indianapolis had made some progress in terms of property rights, but the right to vote was still out of reach. In 1873, the legislature granted women the ability to hold any office elected by the General Assembly or appointed by the governor and gave them control over the real estate of an insane spouse. After this success, the group sought to give women the right to vote in school board elections across the state.
In Indianapolis, the Women's Franchise League held a Ratification Opera with songs like “Twas the Night 'Fore Election” and “For I've Slugred Long in the Cause, Mother”. That year, nationally renowned suffragist Lucy Stone gave a series of lectures in the city on women's right to employment, self-sufficiency, and suffrage. Although the Indiana Women's Rights Association (IWRA) was formed in 1851, no Indianapolis woman was among its founders. Finally, in 1919, after two generations of hard work, Congress passed a new suffrage bill. During a visit in 1897, he addressed the General Assembly and stated, “I want the politicians of Indiana to see that there are women and men in this state and that they will not see it until they are given the right to vote.” In October 1851, Amanda Way organized a convention in Dublin, Indiana to advocate for women's social, economic, and political rights.
At the same time, Indianapolis suffragettes were finding new leaders and new approaches in their fight to get the vote. Indiana suffragettes filed the first petition for women's right to vote in the state legislature in 1859. Legislators decreed in 1877 that the board of directors of the women's prison should be composed solely of women. Bolton supported constitutional changes in news articles published throughout the state which explained complaints related to the status of women under current law. Over the next 20 years, no less than 10 bills on women's suffrage were proposed in the Indiana legislature but each time they were rejected or not considered. Nowadays, individuals living in Indianapolis have many opportunities to get involved in advocating for women's rights. Women4Change Indiana is a great place to start as they are devoted to creating a better future for all Hoosiers through education and advocacy.
They host events throughout the year such as rallies and marches that are open to anyone who wants to join. Additionally, there are many other organizations such as Indy Feminists and Indy NOW that are actively working towards advancing gender equality. Individuals can also get involved by contacting their local representatives and voicing their support for legislation that promotes gender equality. Writing letters or emails expressing your opinion on important issues can be an effective way to make your voice heard. Additionally, individuals can donate their time or money to organizations that are working towards advancing gender equality. Getting involved in advocating for women's rights is an important way for individuals living in Indianapolis to make a difference.
By joining organizations such as Women4Change Indiana or Indy Feminists or contacting local representatives about important issues, individuals can help create a better future for all Hoosiers.
