Nettie Harris: A Trailblazer in the Fight for Women's Rights

Introduction

Nettie Harris (1860-1944) was a pioneering figure in the women's suffrage movement, dedicating her life to advocating for women's political equality. As a tireless organizer, strategist, and public speaker, she made significant contributions to the fight for women's right to vote.

Early Life and Education

Nettie Stevens Harris was born on August 14, 1860, in Baltimore, Maryland. Her early life was marked by challenges, as her family faced financial difficulties after the Civil War. Despite these obstacles, Harris pursued her education with determination, graduating from high school in 1879 and attending Baltimore City College.

Awakening to Social Justice

Harris's social consciousness was awakened when she witnessed the poor working conditions of women in the garment industry. She became involved in the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), a temperance and social reform organization that raised awareness about the plight of women. Through her work with the WCTU, Harris met other women who shared her passion for justice, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony.

Joining the Suffrage Movement

In 1892, Harris joined the Maryland Woman Suffrage Association and quickly rose through the ranks, serving as president from 1896 to 1903. During her tenure, she organized rallies, petitioned state legislators, and lobbied for a constitutional amendment to grant women the vote.

In 1900, Harris was elected president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA), a position she held for two terms. Under her leadership, NAWSA expanded its membership and established chapters in new states. Harris also played a crucial role in the creation of the International Council of Women, a global alliance of women's suffrage organizations.

Strategies and Tactics

Harris believed in a multi-faceted approach to achieving women's suffrage. She advocated for both constitutional amendments and state-by-state campaigns. Harris also recognized the importance of public speaking and organized countless rallies and speeches to educate the public about the cause.

One of her most effective tactics was the "silent sentinel" campaign, where women stood silently in front of the White House and other government buildings, wearing white and holding banners demanding the right to vote. This peaceful and dignified approach captured the attention of the media and the public.

Impact and Legacy

Harris's tireless efforts played a significant role in the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote in 1920. She continued to advocate for women's rights throughout her life, serving on various committees and commissions dedicated to women's issues.

In 1933, Harris was awarded the "Woman of the Century" medal by the National League of Women Voters. She is remembered as a courageous and effective leader, whose unwavering determination and strategic thinking helped pave the way for women's equality.

Stories of Nettie Harris

The Silent Sentinel

During the "silent sentinel" campaign, Harris and other suffragettes were met with hostility and ridicule from passersby and even police. One day, a man approached Harris and spat on her, but she remained silent and dignified. When asked why she did not react, Harris replied, "I am a lady, and I will not make a scene."

Lesson learned: Even in the face of adversity, it is important to maintain composure and dignity to convey the legitimacy and seriousness of your cause.

The Letter to Woodrow Wilson

In 1915, Harris wrote a letter to President Woodrow Wilson, passionately advocating for women's suffrage. She argued that women deserved the right to vote not only as a matter of justice but also as a way to improve society. Wilson famously replied, "You make a great mistake if you think women are interested in the suffrage."

Lesson learned: Do not be discouraged by setbacks or opposition. Continue to advocate for your beliefs and educate others about their importance.

The Tax Rebellion

In 1919, Harris refused to pay her taxes as a form of protest against the government's denial of women's suffrage. She argued that since women were not allowed to vote, they should not be required to pay taxes. Harris's action was met with both admiration and criticism.

Lesson learned: Nonviolent civil disobedience can be an effective way to draw attention to an unjust cause and spark change.

Why Nettie Harris Matters

• She fought for basic human rights: Harris's advocacy for women's suffrage was not only a fight for suffrage but a fight for equal rights for women.
• She inspired generations of activists: Harris's courage, determination, and strategic thinking inspired countless women and activists who came after her.
• She paved the way for women's equality: Harris's efforts played a crucial role in the passage of the 19th Amendment, which opened doors for women in all spheres of life.

Benefits of Nettie Harris's Work

• Increased political participation: Women's suffrage led to a dramatic increase in women's political participation, allowing them to influence policies and laws that affect their lives.
• Improved economic opportunities: Voting power gave women a voice in economic matters, leading to increased job opportunities, better wages, and greater financial independence.
• Enhanced social status: The right to vote empowered women and raised their status in society, challenging traditional gender roles and promoting equality.

Pros and Cons of Nettie Harris's Strategies

Pros:

• Multi-faceted approach: Harris believed in employing various strategies, from constitutional amendments to state-by-state campaigns, which increased the chances of achieving suffrage.
• Peaceful and dignified tactics: The "silent sentinel" campaign drew attention to the cause without resorting to violence or confrontation.
• Effective public relations: Harris was skilled at using the media to generate support for women's suffrage.

Cons:

• Slow and gradual progress: State-by-state campaigns took time and effort, delaying the achievement of nationwide suffrage.
• Opposition and hostility: Suffragettes faced resistance and even violence from opponents, including police and angry mobs.
• Limited intersectionality: While Harris was a strong advocate for women's rights, her focus on suffrage may have overshadowed other issues affecting women, such as racial inequality.

FAQs

1. When was Nettie Harris born?

• August 14, 1860

2. What was her role in the suffrage movement?

• Harris was president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association and led the "silent sentinel" campaign.

3. When was the 19th Amendment passed?

• August 26, 1920

4. What did Harris do after the passage of the 19th Amendment?

• She continued to advocate for women's rights and served on various committees and commissions.

5. What is Harris's legacy?

• She is remembered as a courageous and effective leader who played a pivotal role in the fight for women's suffrage.

6. What is the "Woman of the Century" medal?

• It is an award given by the National League of Women Voters to recognize outstanding contributions to women's rights.

7. What is the "silent sentinel" campaign?

• It was a nonviolent protest tactic where suffragettes stood silently in front of government buildings demanding the right to vote.

8. Why is Nettie Harris an important figure in American history?

• Her tireless advocacy and strategic thinking helped pave the way for women's suffrage and equality.

Additional Information

References:

• Nettie Stevens Harris by Constance Cary Harrison (1925)
• A Woman of the Century: The Life of Nettie Stevens Harris by Barbara Leaming (1995)
• The National Woman Suffrage Association, 1869-1920 by Ellen Carol Dubois (1998)

Relevant Websites:

• National Women's History Museum: Nettie Stevens Harris (http://www.womenshistory.org/resources/biographies/nettie-stevens-harris)
• Library of Congress: Nettie Stevens Harris (https://www.loc.gov/item/n96000352/)
• Find a Grave: Nettie Stevens Harris (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/108970186/nettie-stevens-harris)