ALBANY, N.Y. Sept. 25 2017 — NYSUT members have the chance to win $500 in books and other classroom resources to commemorate the upcoming 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage.
The New York Women’s Vote Centennial Project — co-sponsored by NYSUT, the American Federation of Teachers, First Book and the governor’s office — invites teachers to develop classroom projects and activities to mark the Nov. 6 centennial.
The contest deadline is Oct. 11. Applications can be submitted online.
"New York — through the union movement — has been a national leader in advancing the women's rights movement,” said NYSUT Executive Vice President Jolene DiBrango. “In this centennial year of New York recognizing a woman's right to vote, it is essential that we continue to educate young people on women's history, advocacy and the democratic process. We are proud to be part of this important program and thrilled to again be teaming with First Book. This partnership means that educators will have the books and resources they need to bring this program to life."
The New York State Women’s Suffrage Commission will review all applications and select 15 winners — one from each region of the state and the five boroughs of New York City.
"Igniting young people's interest in civic engagement is vital to strengthening and defending our democracy and ensuring an economy that works for all," said AFT President Randi Weingarten. "Understanding what it took for women to win the right to vote can instruct and inspire us right now, in this moment when we are fighting off threats to the right to vote, and the right to have a voice in our democracy and economy. By teaching about the suffrage movement, we can help empower young people to act.”
Projects may focus on women's history, civic engagement, the democratic process, equal rights, or a related topic. Educators and students are encouraged to explore the question: 100 years from now, when future generations look back, what will our equal rights legacy be? Projects for any grade, K-12, will be considered.
“The Women's Vote Centennial Project will challenge educators to create and develop classroom activities that will help our young people understand the importance of equality for all people,” said Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, commission chair. “The goal of the project is to educate our students about the past and encourage them to use that knowledge to help create the building blocks for our future."
More information on the contest is available via the First Book website.