Women’s suffrage did not happen in a vacuum, rather it was the result of decades of women moving out of the home and into the schools and workplaces. The Philadelphia region has a strong tradition of progressing women’s rights and opportunities for education, work, and other activities. Additionally, the city’s role as a center for African-American politics and culture, as well as institutions such as the world’s first medical college for women, mark the region as a significant center for civil rights.

Now’s the time to live HSP's slogan. We are in unprecedented times and we must document our experiences. This is where you come in! More than 200 years ago Dr. Benjamin Rush tirelessly studied the Yellow Fever epidemic that swept through Philadelphia. His writings can be studied here and at our sister organization, the Library Company of Philadelphia.

This display runs through March 27. In conjunction with the Free Library of Philadelphia’s One Book One City initiative, we offer this display that recognizes Native Americans’ past struggles as well as contributions they have made to America throughout history. The display is free and open to the public during regular library hours.