Thousands of America's women marched, chanted slogans and held signs above their heads with a single message; that the women who stood beside the men throughout our nation's history should be able to vote and have their voices heard.
Aug. 26 marks the day that the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution became law and gave women in the U.S. the right to vote. That period in American history, as any other, has its heroes.
Eleanor Roosevelt, Abigail Adams, Alice Paul and Rose Crabtree are only a few of the great women who brought about the necessary change in the role women play in the U.S. government.
Fort Bragg recognizes the efforts of these women on Women's Equality day to celebrate the addition of a female voice in the democratic process.
"This day is not just important to Fort Bragg but for people everywhere to recognize the rights women have today," said Sgt. 1st Class Shaylon Tarver, the 18th Airborne Corps Equal Opportunity Office non-commissioned officer in charge.
Kate Campbell Stevenson is a singer, actor and educator who has put together a one-woman show celebrating the accomplishments of these female icons. The purpose of her performance is to educate and encourage young women to participate in government.
"When I was travelling across the country I would see young people who had no knowledge or appreciation for what we as women have today," said Stevenson. "It's important to know where we came from in order to go forward."
Stevenson has starred in over 30 Broadway musicals produced in regional theaters across the United States, including "Camelot", "Carousel", "My Fair Lady", "The King and I", "Show Boat", "Music Man" and "I Do! I Do!," as well as performing in radio and TV commercials.
"We chose Stevenson because she has over 25 years of experience," said Tarver. "She has a wonderful show called 'Petticoats in Politics' that takes you throughout the women's suffrage movement."
Stevenson dons costumes and make-up to resemble the women she portrays in her show as well as adopting unique characteristics, such as their facial expressions, and posture.
"I am particularly excited to portray Bessie Coleman who was a black female aviator," said Stevenson.
"Petticoats in Politics" highlights the accomplishments of women during the early 20th century and depicts their struggle to be recognized in a world dominated by men.
"We are truly thankful that she would accommodate us by coming to Ft. Bragg," said Tarver.
Stevenson will perform "Petticoats and Politics" at the York Theatre on Ft. Bragg, Aug. 26 and will be open to the public.
"For women's voices to be heard, more women need to run for office, serve on committees and learn how to advocate for issues they feel are important to improve our society, whether it's on local, state or national level," said Stevenson.