Luncheon celebrates women's equality

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Sheppard community showed its appreciation Aug. 28 for diversity and equality in the Air Force at the Women's Equality Luncheon. 

The national observance of Women's Equality Day was Aug. 26 in honor of the 19th Amendment, the Women's Suffrage Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. 

Col. Marcia Walker, the guest speaker for the event, said she wanted to emphasize the history that led to the 19th Amendment, battles women have fought and are still fighting, and the importance of voting. 

She said an amendment to allow women to vote in the U.S. was first proposed in 1878, but it wasn't until Aug. 26, 1920, that the 19th Amendment was passed to give women that right. 

"The only way our right to vote is effected is if we exercise it," Colonel Walker said, "So, I encourage you to exercise it." 

Colonel Walker's reminder of women's fight to vote had an impact on the women and men in attendance. 

"She's a great inspiration, she inspired me to push forward," said Airman 1st Class Tiffany Halcromb.

Colonel Walker reminded the guests of the progression of women's rights in other countries. She said even though women in Turkey have been in the Turkish parliament since 1934, the percentage of women in the parliament still remain below 5 percent. 

Airman Halcromb said her eyes were opened by the colonel's speech. 

"I realized how much more we're allowed to do compared to other countries," Airman Halcromb said. 

In his closing comments, Col. David Petersen, commander of the 80th Flying Training Wing, said women have progressed tremendously, especially in the military. In 1950, only 2 percent of military members were women and now 15 percent of servicemembers are women, he said. 

Second Lt. Steven Cosgrove, executive officer for the 82nd Training Group, said he agreed with the 80th FTW commander. 

"It's important to recognize that women and men both equally contribute to the Air Force and the American society," he said. 

Senior Airman Ashley Martinez, a health service manager for the 82nd Medical Support Squadron, said the luncheon helped her realize the importance of equality. 

"Don't take your rights for granted; not everyone is given rights," she said.