🌟 Honoring Women’s History Month: Spotlight on Belva Lockwood 🌟

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re shining a spotlight on remarkable women who have made their legacy by advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusion. Throughout this month, every Wednesday, we will be shining a spotlight on a prominent figure or significant event from New York state that has positively contributed to the history of women’s empowerment.

This week, we honor the legacy of Belva Lockwood, a tireless advocate for women’s rights in upstate New York!

Belva Lockwood, born in Royalton, NY, blazed trails as one of the first women lawyers in the U.S.. Despite facing numerous obstacles and outspoken opposition from her peers, she fearlessly pursued her passion for law, becoming an attorney in 1873. Discrimination based on her gender created countless barriers in her career, forcing her to work tirelessly to succeed as an attorney. However, her determination prevailed, and in 1880, she became the first woman to argue a case before the highest court in the land.

In addition to her inspiring law career, Lockwood was also an influential political figure. Belva Lockwood became the first woman to appear on the official presidential ballot, running in 1884 and 1888 as a member of the Equal Rights Party – all before women had the right to vote!

Belva Lockwood’s legacy is an inspiration to all of us at SUNY Broome and beyond. Her efforts pioneered a new space for women to pursue law and strengthened the fight for gender equality. As we honor her contributions during Women’s History Month, let’s continue in the spirit of her work, advocating for a more equitable and inclusive world for everyone! 

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