Susan B. Anthony: A Figure that inspires us to use our voice

Susan B. Anthony was a pioneering figure in the American women’s rights movement whose resilience, determination, and perseverance left an indelible mark on the fight for gender equality. Anthony grew up in a Quaker family that upheld progressive values, particularly regarding social justice. This environment, which encouraged activism and the pursuit of equality, played a crucial role in shaping her future endeavors. Anthony’s early life exposed her to the injustices faced by women, especially in relation to their legal and political rights, and this awareness ignited a lifelong passion for reform.

Anthony’s activism began in the 1840s when she became involved in the abolitionist movement, particularly with the American Anti-Slavery Society. It was through her work alongside abolitionists like Frederick Douglass that Anthony realized the oppression of women and the enslavement of African Americans were interconnected struggles. This insight fueled her determination to fight for the rights of both women and marginalized communities. In this era, when women were largely excluded from political life, Anthony found an ally in Elizabeth Cady Stanton, another influential figure in the women’s rights movement. Together, they formed a powerful partnership that would become the driving force behind the fight for women's suffrage in America.

In 1869, Anthony and Stanton co-founded the National Woman Suffrage Association (NWSA), an organization focused on securing a constitutional amendment to grant women the right to vote. This partnership proved to be transformative for the suffrage movement. Anthony was not just an advocate but an active participant who devoted much of her life to traveling across the country, delivering speeches, and organizing rallies to rally women to demand their right to vote. Despite being met with fierce opposition from both men and women who believed women should remain in the domestic sphere, Anthony remained undeterred. She knew that progress would not come easily, but her resilience in the face of adversity only strengthened her resolve.

One of the most iconic moments of Anthony’s life came in 1872 when she was arrested for voting illegally in the presidential election in her hometown of Rochester, New York. At the age of 52, she cast her ballot in defiance of the law, believing that women should have the same political rights as men. After her arrest, she was fined $100, a penalty she famously refused to pay. Rather than back down, Anthony used the trial as an opportunity to publicly argue for women’s suffrage. Her willingness to take this bold stand against a system that excluded women from the democratic process demonstrated her unshakable determination. Even in the face of imprisonment and public ridicule, she persisted, knowing that her actions would help draw attention to the cause and pave the way for future progress.

Anthony’s perseverance extended beyond just securing the right to vote for women. She was committed to advocating for women’s rights in a variety of areas, including education, property ownership, and economic independence. She understood that suffrage alone would not provide women with full equality. Her relentless drive for reform pushed her to campaign for women to have access to higher education, control over their wages, and equal protection under the law. Through these efforts, she laid the groundwork for later feminist movements that would push for broader social and economic changes.

Although Anthony did not live to see the 19th Amendment pass (right to vote) in 1920, her tireless advocacy was integral to its eventual success. The amendment, which granted women the right to vote, is often referred to as the “Susan B. Anthony Amendment” in recognition of her significant contributions to the suffrage movement. Her perseverance and resilience in the face of setbacks, including years of personal sacrifice and constant opposition, ultimately led to the realization of her goal. Though she did not see the amendment become law in her lifetime, the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920 stands as a tribute to her unrelenting spirit.

Susan B. Anthony’s legacy endures because of the resilience and determination she displayed throughout her life. She was a tireless advocate who refused to accept the status quo and persisted in her quest for justice, even when success seemed far off. Her unwavering commitment to gender equality and social reform inspired generations of women and men who would continue the fight for human rights. Anthony's legacy serves as a reminder that lasting change often requires individuals to demonstrate extraordinary perseverance, challenging established norms, and never giving up on the pursuit of a more just and equitable world. Today, as we continue to fight for gender equality and social justice, Susan B. Anthony’s resilience and determination remain a source of inspiration for all who strive to create a better future.

Susan B. Anthony inspires us to use our voice in many ways. In the workplace, we can speak up to advocate for our needs and what we are looking to accomplish.

Here are a few ways you can speak up in the workplace:

1. Advocate for Yourself

• Speak up about your accomplishments and contributions.

• Ask for feedback and use it to grow.

• Negotiate for fair pay, promotions, or professional development opportunities.

2. Support Others

• Amplify colleagues’ ideas, especially those from underrepresented voices.

• Give credit where it's due and recognize others’ achievements.

• Mentor or sponsor junior employees.

3. Encourage Open Dialogue

• Participate in meetings and share your insights confidently.

• Ask thoughtful questions that promote discussion.

• Challenge ideas constructively to foster innovation.

4. Advocate for Change

• Speak up about workplace policies that could be more inclusive or fair.

• Join or start employee resource groups (ERGs) to support diversity and inclusion.

• Support mental health and work-life balance initiatives.

5. Provide and Seek Constructive Feedback

• Offer feedback that is solution-oriented and professional.

• Accept feedback with an open mind and apply it for growth.

6. Engage in Thought Leadership

• Write articles, share insights, or present on topics within your expertise.

• Contribute to company newsletters, blogs, or industry panels.

7. Be a Role Model

• Set the tone for open communication and respect.

• Lead by example in how you express yourself and treat others.

Speaking up doesn’t always mean being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about using your influence to create a positive impact. Where do you feel you have the most opportunity to use your voice at work? Let’s get talking!

Susan B. Anthony, pictured above. An image portraying Anthony in her later years, reflecting her enduring commitment to social reform and women's suffrage.