Women’s Equality Day
Women’s Equality Day on August 26 commemorates the 1920 certification of the Nineteenth Amendment, which prohibits denying the vote on the basis of sex. Congress designated the day in 1971.
About Women’s Equality Day
History & origins
August 26, 1920, is when the Nineteenth Amendment was certified, barring denial of the vote because of sex. In 1971, Congress designated August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. The day is commemorative; it is not a federal day off.
Why it matters
The date is a voting-rights anniversary. It is not a generic ‘women’s appreciation’ day and should not erase later struggles over who could actually cast a ballot.
How to celebrate
Read the Nineteenth Amendment, support voter registration where you are eligible, and remember that voting rights history did not end in 1920 for all women.
Facts
- The Nineteenth Amendment was certified on August 26, 1920
- Congress designated Women’s Equality Day in 1971 (Public Law 93-192 followed later commemorations; the 1971 joint resolution is the usual citation)
- It is a commemorative date, not a federal paid holiday
Upcoming dates
- Wednesday, August 26, 2026
- Thursday, August 26, 2027
- Saturday, August 26, 2028
- Sunday, August 26, 2029
- Monday, August 26, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Women’s Equality Day in 2026?
Women’s Equality Day in 2026 falls on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
What does it commemorate?
Certification of the Nineteenth Amendment on August 26, 1920.
Who designated the day?
The U.S. Congress in 1971.
Is it a federal holiday?
No.
Share
Help others discover this day by sharing it.