A Century of Women’s Suffrage in Oregon: Understanding History, Making History

Arrive early! The Oregon Historical Society will be hosting an exhibit about women’s suffrage and political activism in Oregon. Doors open 11:30 AM.

It took 42 years and five unsuccessful campaigns before women in Oregon achieved the right to vote in 1912. Next year, Oregon will commemorate the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in the state and already the retrospectives and celebrations are beginning.

On July 8, Governor Barbara Roberts will recount a critical piece of Oregon history: the story of the campaign for Oregon women’s right to vote. She will also offer her observations on women’s political activity in the state, their growing electoral successes and expanded public leadership, and the many challenges women continue to face.

Governor Barbara Roberts was elected Governor of the State of Oregon in 1990, becoming not only the first woman governor of the state but also one of the first 10 female governors in the nation. Following her time as governor, Roberts acted as Director of State and Local Government Executive Programs at Harvard University and served as Associate Director of Leadership at Portland State University’s Hatfield School of Government. Earlier this year, Governor Roberts was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Metro Council, a post she will hold through 2012.