EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Eglin celebrated Women’s Equality Day Aug. 22. This year’s theme is “Equality Starts with Empowered Women.”
The event commemorated the 1920 passage of the Constitution’s 19th Amendment to the Constitution, giving women the right to vote. The observance has grown to include focused attention on women's continued efforts toward gaining full equality.
The woman suffrage amendment was introduced for the first time in 1878. It was submitted numerous times until finally in June 1919 the amendment received Senate and House of Representative approval.
Tech. Sgt. Stephany Hosko, 96th Logistics Readiness Squadron Individual Protection Equipment NCOIC, spoke about being charmed into a relationship with an Airman early in her career, who soon showed an abusive personality.
“I was ‘love bombed,’” she said. “Love bombing is a manipulative tactic that involves someone showering another person with excessive attention and affection to gain an advantage over them.”
She eventually broke off the relationship and is now happily married with a son.
“We all lose when women are not allowed to reach their full potential because they are trapped in abusive relationships that strip them of their dignity, safety, and independence,” Hosko said. “It’s crucial to recognize and challenge these harmful stereotypes to prevent violence and promote equality.”
Master Sgt. Ashley Hall, 96th Maintenance Squadron first sergeant, also spoke.
The 18-year veteran, wife and mother said she emphasized with female Airmen in the audience who have endured difficulties in gaining equality in the military.
“At a glance, you may perceive my military experience as easy, but I’ve faced equality challenges like many of you,” she said. “Though past struggles and the fear of ongoing adversity lingers, I find strength in knowing we have each other, the honor to advocate for many, and privilege to celebrate change alongside you.”
Hall encouraged attendees to stay true to themselves while moving forward in their careers.
“You don’t need to compromise any part of yourself to fit into an imaginary military mold,” she said. “We should embrace our diversity. Let’s continue to break down barriers - from policies, societal expectations, peers, leaders and within ourselves. Let’s accelerate progress together.”