104 years have passed since the 19th Amendment was ratified, yet the fight for equality remains a daily battle. On August 26, 2024, Governor Gretchen Whitmer marked this milestone by proclaiming it Women’s Equality Day, a day to honor the progress made but also to recognize the work that lies ahead. Governor Whitmer’s words spoke volumes: “Women’s Equality Day is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate how far we’ve come in the fight for women’s rights.” This proclamation doesn’t just honor a historical win; it reinforces a continued commitment to protecting women’s rights in Michigan.
Governor Whitmer has built her career on advocating for women’s rights, from reproductive freedom to economic justice. It’s not just talk—it’s action. Throughout her time as a state representative, senator, and now governor, she has pushed policies that empower women. Reproductive health, LGBTQ+ equality, and economic opportunity are at the center of her mission. Her work protecting women’s rights is rooted in understanding that equality is about more than just laws; it’s about access and opportunity.
Whitmer’s relentless drive toward breaking down barriers is reflected in her recent victories. Take the Michigan Family Protection Act—signed after other states like Alabama criminalized IVF—ensuring surrogacy and IVF are protected. She’s moved swiftly and decisively to protect abortion access by repealing outdated statutes, safeguarding women’s control over their bodies. These victories are not just a celebration of rights won but are shields against future threats to those rights. Whitmer is showing us that the fight for equality requires constant vigilance.
Winnie Brinks, Michigan’s Senate Majority Leader, emphasized the importance of women in leadership roles, stating, “When young girls grow up seeing themselves reflected in positions of influence, we are laying the groundwork for a future where women in leadership is the norm.” Brinks’ words reflect a broader movement in Michigan—women, especially women of color, are stepping into leadership roles across all sectors. Justice Kyra Harris Bolden, the first Black woman on the Michigan Supreme Court in its 188-year history, shared her perspective: “I feel the weight of that milestone because I know personally of the pain and sacrifice of our ancestors… But I also bear it with great pride in knowing I can inspire a new generation, especially young Black women, to achieve something they never thought possible.” Bolden’s words remind us that equality isn’t just about representation—it’s about honoring the struggles and sacrifices that made such representation possible.
Justice Bolden’s story is especially powerful for Black women in Michigan. Her rise to the Michigan Supreme Court was not just a personal victory but a collective one for Black women who have long been told that certain spaces were not meant for them. Bolden’s position serves as both a reminder of the work still to be done and a beacon for future generations. Her words resonate deeply, not only because of her groundbreaking achievements but because they reflect the shared struggle of so many women of color.
Governor Whitmer’s cabinet reflects this commitment to representation and equality. Sixty percent of her appointees are women or people of color, marking her administration as the most diverse in Michigan’s history. Representation matters. Women, especially Black women, have historically been excluded from decision-making spaces, but Whitmer’s administration is shifting that narrative. It’s more than just symbolic; it’s about ensuring diverse voices are not only heard but that they lead.
Economic justice is at the forefront of Whitmer’s policies. Her FY25 Budget includes significant wins for working families, particularly working moms. The continuation of the Michigan Working Families Tax Credit is one such victory, providing an average tax refund of $3,150 to over 700,000 families. Whitmer understands that supporting women means supporting their families, and this policy is a direct reflection of that belief.
But it’s not just about tax credits. Whitmer has expanded access to affordable childcare, recognizing that childcare is not a luxury but a necessity for women in the workforce. This policy acknowledges the reality of many working mothers who face the impossible task of balancing work with the cost of childcare. Governor Whitmer’s policies are crafted with a clear understanding of the struggles women face daily, and her solutions are rooted in empathy and action.
Even as we celebrate these victories, we must acknowledge that they came through the tireless efforts of those who paved the way. Michigan’s history is rich with notable figures like Sojourner Truth and Clara Arthur, suffragettes who fought for women’s right to vote. Their legacy is reflected in Michigan’s early adoption of the 19th Amendment, a legacy that Whitmer and her administration are committed to upholding.
As Fadwa Hammoud, Detroit Managing Partner of Miller Johnson, stated, “Women belong on the front lines—driving our economy, shaping our businesses, and leading in public service.” Hammoud’s words are a reminder that women have always been central to the progress of this state and this nation. Their contributions are not just important; they are indispensable.
On Women’s Equality Day in 2020, Whitmer moved the Michigan Women’s Commission under the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to address the economic issues facing Michigan women more effectively. This decision wasn’t merely a structural change but a strategic move to ensure that economic justice remains central to the fight for equality. Cheryl Bergman, Executive Director of the Michigan Women’s Commission, pointed out, “The Michigan Women’s Commission is committed to removing barriers to ensure Michigan women are free to pursue a pathway to a high-wage job in any field that they choose.” Whitmer’s policies are paving the way for future generations of women to thrive.
Governor Whitmer’s legacy for women in Michigan is already historic, but her work is far from over. Her leadership reflects a deep understanding that equality is not static; it’s a continuous effort. The fight for women’s rights is an ongoing struggle, and Whitmer is at the forefront, not only celebrating the victories but ensuring that future generations can build on them. Women’s Equality Day is a reminder of the progress made, but it is also a call to action—because equality for all women remains a fight worth fighting.
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