Triana Arnold James Highlights the Power of Women’s Voices and Voting Rights on Wake Up With Dee

As the nation reflects on the enduring impact of the 19th Amendment, advocate, author, and community leader Triana Arnold James joined the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show to discuss the importance of civic engagement, women’s leadership, and an upcoming event designed to honor the generations of women who fought for the right to vote.

During her conversation with Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, James shared the inspiration behind “Honoring the 19th Amendment & Celebrating Women in Democracy,” a special community event taking place on Saturday, August 29, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Hotel Indigo Atlanta-Vinings Ballpark Area. The event will commemorate the passage of the 19th Amendment while recognizing that many women—particularly Black and Hispanic women—continued to face significant barriers to voting long after the amendment’s ratification.

James emphasized that the struggle for equality and representation did not end in 1920. Instead, the anniversary serves as an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made while recommitting to the work that remains. The event will connect history, culture, advocacy, and civic participation, bringing together community members who are passionate about preserving democracy and expanding opportunities for future generations.

The celebration will also highlight the contributions of women who continue to shape public life, business, education, and community leadership. By examining both the victories and challenges of the past, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the role women have played—and continue to play—in strengthening democratic institutions.

Women’s Equality Day, observed annually on August 26, commemorates the certification of the 19th Amendment, which prohibited states from denying the right to vote on the basis of sex. While the amendment marked a historic milestone, voting rights advocates note that many women of color continued to face discrimination and disenfranchisement for decades afterward, making ongoing civic engagement and voter participation essential components of a healthy democracy.

Community members interested in attending the event can learn more and register through the Eventbrite page for “Honoring the 19th Amendment & Celebrating Women in Democracy.” The gathering promises an afternoon of inspiration, education, and meaningful dialogue centered on the future of women’s leadership and democratic participation.

For more insightful conversations with leaders, advocates, elected officials, and change-makers from across Metro Atlanta and beyond, be sure to listen to the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show with Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, airing Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on News & Talk WAOK and on the AUDACY app.