ICYMI - Yesterday was She Did Day. We had the opportunity to join representatives of Historic Columbia, Columbia City of Women + SC Women's Rights and Empowerment Network (WREN) to celebrate and hear some exciting news.

The organizations teamed up to commemorate the centennial of the 19th Amendment, which we highlighted last week, and to observe Women’s Equality Day. It not only remembers the journey of women's suffrage but also recognizes that not all women were included in the amendment. August 26 is celebrated to remember all women’s continued efforts toward equality in all aspects.

Here is what the celebrations looked like in Columbia.

She Did Day began with a presentation with special guests including: City of Columbia Councilwoman Tameika Isaac Devine, Artist Services Program Director of the South Carolina Arts Commission Ce Scott-Fitts, Executive Director of Historic Columbia Robin Waites, CEO of WREN Ann Warner, and President of the League of Women Voters Laura Woliver.

League of Women Voters President Laura Woliver

During the presentation the speakers wanted to recognize the women who fought for voting rights in Columbia, plus make sure that there is a significant way to represent and honor women in our community today.

DYK that in Columbia, 4% of the 145 landmarks are specifically named for women and one of the 41 streets in downtown Columbia is named to recognize a woman? Any guesses as to what that street is? Check the wrap for the answer.

The Columbia City of Women + SC Arts Commission announced that there will be a new monument designed specifically to recognize women coming to the corner of Gervais and Main Streets. After thousands of proposals from artists across the US were considered, DeeDee Morrison (a GVL native) was selected to create the new monument, which is expected to be completed this fall.

Decal to represent future location of the monument | Image via Historic Columbia

After the announcement, the League of Women Voters of SC held a Silent Vigil on the steps of the State House.

Members of theLeague of Women Voters at the Silent Vigil at SC State House

The members of the League of Women Voters dressed in suffrage attire and practiced social distancing during the event. The purpose was to honor the suffragists from the 1910s who silently protested in front of the White House when Woodrow Wilson was president.

Want to get involved? Learn more about the #SheDidDay Challenge to join in the conversation.

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