Susan B Anthony Day

The Susan B Anthony Day is observed annually on February 15. In 2026, it falls on February 15. This commemorative day honors the birthday of one of the most prominent leaders in the American women’s suffrage movement. While it is not a federal holiday, several states recognize it as a legal observance to celebrate Anthony’s lifelong dedication to civil rights, gender equality, and the eventual passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

History of Susan B Anthony Day

Susan B. Anthony was born on February 15, 1820, into a Quaker family with a strong tradition of social activism. Her early career as a teacher exposed her to the stark wage gap between men and women, sparking her interest in labor reform. In 1851, she met Elizabeth Cady Stanton, beginning a historic fifty-year partnership that defined the suffrage movement. Together, they founded the National Woman Suffrage Association in 1869, tirelessly lobbying Congress and traveling across the country to give speeches and organize local chapters.

One of the most famous moments in Anthony’s history occurred in 1872 when she was arrested for voting in the presidential election in Rochester, New York. She was tried and fined $100, a penalty she famously refused to pay, stating she would never pay a dollar for an unjust penalty. Although she died in 1906, fourteen years before the 19th Amendment was ratified, her work was so foundational that the amendment is often referred to as the Susan B. Anthony Amendment. Formal state recognition began in the 1970s, with California, New York, and Florida among the first to establish the day as an official observance.

Why is Susan B Anthony Day important?

This day serves as a vital reminder of the persistence required to achieve systemic social change. Anthony spent over half a century advocating for causes that were often met with public hostility and legal opposition. By celebrating her birthday, the holiday highlights the importance of the right to vote as a cornerstone of democratic participation. It encourages citizens to reflect on the progress made in legal equality while acknowledging the historical struggles of the suffragists who paved the way for modern civil liberties.

Beyond voting rights, the day emphasizes Anthony’s broader impact on social justice, including her work in the abolitionist and temperance movements. She advocated for married women’s property rights and equal pay, issues that remain relevant in contemporary discussions about the gender pay gap. For young people, the day provides a powerful example of leadership and moral courage. It is a time to honor the legacy of a woman who dedicated her life to the belief that true freedom is impossible without equal representation for all citizens.

• It celebrates the birth of a pioneer who transformed the legal status of American women.
• The day promotes awareness of the long struggle for universal suffrage and voting rights.
• It recognizes Anthony’s work in the anti-slavery movement and for labor reform.
• The observance highlights the importance of civic engagement and exercising the right to vote.
• It honors the collaborative efforts of early activists who fought for property and educational rights.

How to Celebrate Susan B Anthony Day

Many people celebrate by visiting historical sites dedicated to her life, such as the National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House in Rochester, New York. A popular tradition involves placing “I Voted” stickers or flowers on her gravesite in Mount Hope Cemetery to show gratitude for her sacrifices. In schools and libraries, the day is often marked by reading her famous speeches or participating in workshops that explore the history of the women’s rights movement. These activities help ensure that her “failure is impossible” philosophy continues to inspire new generations.

Another meaningful way to observe the day is through active community participation and voter registration drives. Supporters often use the occasion to donate to organizations that protect voting access or support women in leadership roles. Sharing educational facts and quotes on social media helps spread awareness of her achievements to a broader audience. Whether through quiet reflection on her writings or through organized community events, the day is an opportunity to recommit to the ideals of equality and justice that Anthony championed throughout her life.

• Visit a museum or historical landmark dedicated to the women’s suffrage movement.
• Organize or participate in a voter registration drive in your local community.
• Read a biography or watch a documentary about the partnership of Anthony and Stanton.
• Support a local women’s rights organization through volunteering or donations.
• Wear a yellow rose or a suffrage sash as a symbolic tribute to the movement.

Susan B Anthony Day Dates Table