I am 86 and a vet. I ask two related questions: Who are the leaders today that inspire us to support their measures for the greater good in the state and nation? And which candidates for public office have a positive vision and a commitment to upholding the rule of law, the Constitution, and the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence? For an example of the leadership I hope to find, I look to the career of Mary N. Chase (1863-1959). While president of the NH Woman Suffrage Association, 1902-1912, she provided inspiring leadership for woman suffrage. Chase had a noble mission “to secure equality and true liberty for one-half of the human race.” She believed that “A republic based on equal rights for all is not the dream of a fanatic but the only sane form of government.” Her words deserve to be read and inwardly digested today.

The path to the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution in 1920 was long and arduous. Chase faced strong headwinds from many directions, especially all-male legislatures. Victories for the common and greater good do not come easily. After the passage of the 19th Amendment, the League of Women Voters continues the work of empowering voters and promoting democracy. The League’s work is of the greatest importance for the future of our Republic. The issue of equal rights is as alive today as it was a century ago for Mary Chase and the suffrage movement.

Kent Hackmann

Andover