Utah celebrates Sarah Young as first woman to vote on Valentine's Day 1870

A historic moment was celebrated during the recent government meeting in Utah, marking the significance of women’s suffrage in the state. Representatives recognized February 14 as Women Voter Registration Day, honoring Sarah Young, the first woman to cast a vote in the United States on this day in 1870.

The discussion highlighted Young's groundbreaking achievement, noting that while Wyoming passed the first law allowing women to vote, it was Young who made history by being the first to actually cast a ballot. The meeting underscored the challenges faced by women in Utah, including the political climate surrounding polygamy, which women chose not to vote against at the time. This led to the temporary loss of voting rights until Utah achieved statehood in 1896, when efforts were made to demonstrate patriotism and inclusivity in voting rights.

The representatives praised the contributions of women like Young and Emmeline Wells, who played pivotal roles in advancing women's suffrage from the West to the East. This celebration serves as a reminder of Utah's pioneering spirit in the fight for women's rights, with a call for recognition and applause for the historical impact of these early suffragettes. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to honoring this legacy and promoting voter registration among women today.