The challenge we face in 2024 election
In lieu of the recent Supreme Court decision in the Dobbs case, which overturned Roe v. Wade, women are voicing their displeasure and legitimate concern regarding this decision which set women's rights back 50-plus years. Speeches and quotes at the rallies range from: “Demanding change, one vote at a time.” “One vote, one step for equality.” “Empowered women, voting women.” “Vote like a girl, because girls change the world.” “Behind every empowered woman is a ballot cast.” This is just a small sampling of the scenes now playing out in light of this egregious decision.
Interestingly though, these are not quotes from the protests we see and hear today. They are quotes that came from the Women's Suffrage Movement during the second decade of the 20th Century. Through these pioneering women, their hard work, and their due diligence, it led to the creation of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution on Aug. 18, 1920. The amendment states: “The rights of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any States on account of sex.”
This is where we are today. I applaud the efforts of women across this country who are making their voices heard and demanding action to rectify this Neanderthal ruling. But this is not just a women's fight. It is America's fight. American women are doing their part. But the battle also needs to be reinforced by men across this nation.
Men, husbands, boyfriends — women will die if this ruling is not overturned. You will not be able to sway the spineless MAGA Republicans who either deflect, deny or even boast about this issue when challenged. It will take all of the sexes to overcome this and unite together.
The only way to accomplish this is through the ballot box at this year's General Election. Pew Research Center conducted a survey and found that a majority of Americans (62%) disapprove of the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Public support for legal abortion remains largely unchanged, with 62% saying it should be legal in all or most cases. An NBC News Poll revealed 61% voter disapproval. An ABC News Poll found 66% overall oppose the court's Dobbs ruling, with 54% strongly opposing it. The list goes on. Facts are facts.
Susan B. Anthony was once quoted as saying: “It was we, the people; not we, the white male citizens; nor yet we, the male citizens; but we, the whole people, who formed the Union. …” Men, their rights and nothing more; women; their rights and nothing less.”
The 2020 election was often referred to as our most crucial election to date. Unfortunately, the 2024 election is of even greater magnitude to our democracy as we now know it. This election is not a referendum on Joe Biden, but a referendum on Donald Trump, his Republican sycophants, and the MAGA election deniers. This is the challenge we face.
Wayne Bartosik
Wheaton