Michigan women were on the forefront of the national women’s suffrage movement and Michigan was often in the national eye. This was due to its pioneering status as one of the few states where women could vote in school elections long before they won full suffrage. The upcoming 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment is a fitting time to examine and celebrate Michigan’s part in the suffrage movement.

Ruth Stevens is a retired professor of Legal Studies at Grand Valley State University, where she taught Women and the Law, among other Legal Studies courses. She is currently a member of the board of the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council. Her work on Ella Mae Backus, the first female Assistant U.S. Attorney in Michigan, was published in the Michigan Historical Review. More recently, Stevens has turned her attention to filling gaps in the story of the women’s suffrage movement in Michigan, with special attention to local suffrage efforts. Her presentation is an inspirational story which sheds light on how determined individuals can join together to battle and overcome injustice.

No RSVP is required for this free program. Please contact peter@northberrienhistory.org with any questions or call the Museum at (269) 468-3330.