Hidden Treasures 2020 Thematic Focus Stipends

One hundred years ago, the decades long struggle of women around the United States who protested, picketed, and were imprisoned in their quest to secure their constitutional right to vote, culminated with the ratification of the 19th Amendment. The Amendment resolves that

 “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex."

To celebrate this historic centennial, the Freedom's Way National Heritage Area will provide support for Hidden Treasures 2020 programs, projects, and activities that commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment, beginning with the start of the ratification process in June 1919, and concluding with the centennial of the amendment becoming law on August 26, 1920.

The thematic focus will, as defined by the National Park Service, highlight people, places and  objects from throughout the Heritage Area that are associated with stories of the 19th Amendment, civics, and women’s history. 

Hidden Treasures 19th Amendment Stipends of $350 are available for programs or activities telling these stories proposed by February 20, 2020. The stipends are designed to provide assistance for programs and projects that take place during the month of May and will be promoted as a special theme within Hidden Treasures 2020. Funding may be used for research as well as other qualified program-related expenses.

Be creative. If you have an idea, let us know. We’re happy to talk it through with you. Potential programs/projects may include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Exhibits
  • The recreation of an historical event
  • Lectures/speakers
  • Drama/art projects
  • Projects designed specifically for youth groups
  • EqualiTeas
  • Walking tours

The 45 communities of the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area share a rich and complex history reflecting the stories of all sides of the struggle for the 19th Amendment. It took 72 years to pass and ratify the 19th Amendment. This is a complex history and there are many untold stories within the Heritage Area that relate to women securing the right to vote and the subsequent advances in equality that the amendment foreshadowed.

We hope you will help us uncover and share them.

To propose your program, please contact Freedom’s Way by phone at 978-772-3654 or by email to ptodisco@freedomsway.org.