The 250th anniversary of men gaining a voice in their governance and securing the right to vote is well celebrated — yet needs its companion story of the women’s fight for these very same rights! This Thursday, come see an inspiring choral performance and film portraying the history of women’s suffrage, co-sponsored by the Arlington Friends of the Drama, Cantilena Women’s Voices and the League of Women Voters of Arlington.
The evening begins with How Long Must We Wait, a documentary film by Jaclyn O’Laughlin about the arduous 72-year battle that women fought to achieve the right to vote in the United States, which culminated the passage of the 19th amendment in 1920.
In the second half of the evening, the voices of suffragists come to life in the production of Lifting as We Climb, a work composed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of this constitutional amendment. Eight guest readers narrate the history of the fight for equality, voicing the words and ideas of many of the activists of the movement, interspersed with a moving choral accompaniment provided by Cantilena, Women’s Voices and members of Voices Rising. It reveals the hidden struggles and contributions made by African American women, reminding us that that there is still much work left to be done in the fight for women’s equal rights and for democracy.
An informal talk back and reception follow the program. Reserve your ticket ahead of time by going to afdtheater.org The event is free; donations are welcome. It will be broadcast live by ACMi. For questions and details, contact: info@afdtheater.org
