Larimer County proclaims Aug. 26 as Women’s Equality Day; local groups mark the anniversary

The Larimer County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a proclamation declaring Aug. 26, 2025, as Women’s Right to Vote and Equality Day. Commissioner Jody Shattuck McNally moved to approve the proclamation and the board voted 3-0 in favor.

Commissioners and community leaders used the occasion to highlight both historical milestones and continuing disparities. Commissioner Shattuck McNally noted Colorado granted women the vote before the 19th Amendment and described her work co-founding the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation to secure a place on the National Mall that tells the broader history of the movement. League of Women Voters of Larimer County President Pat Berger thanked the board for the recognition and invited the public to a League event on Aug. 21 honoring two local women.

Anne Marie Isabel Evans, president of the Northern Colorado chapter of the National Organization for Women, warned that the anniversary comes as a challenging moment for women’s rights nationally and urged civic engagement and voting. Larimer County Treasurer and Public Trustee Irene Josie recalled trailblazer Myrna Rodenberger and praised local public servants. Several local women and community members — including Gail Randall, Cindy Manslambrook and Carrie Earlywine — offered personal remarks on the continuing importance of civic participation.

Commissioners placed the proclamation in the context of other agenda items, noting links between childcare, behavioral health and economic equity for women. After the vote the board paused for photographs with attendees. The proclamation was signed and dated by the chair of the board.