By Sue Klinkhamer, 16th Mayor of the City of St. Charles
The 19th amendment gave women not only the right to vote but also the right to run for and hold elected office. Though women make up 51% of the United States electorate, the numbers of women running and holding elective office is a much smaller percentage. Women bring a different perspective to issues, and need to be encouraged to run.
I first ran for the St Charles City Council in 1989 when I was 35 years old. I was the only woman until I was joined by 2 more 4 years later. In 1997 I ran and was elected the first female Mayor of St Charles and served two terms. (1997-2005). I always say that it is not as important to be the first as it is not to be the last.
The US is changing slowly and there are more women in government at all levels. Thirty years ago there were only 2 female US Senators. Now there are 11. Nowhere near 50%, which would be ideal for fair representation.
I would hope that young girls today would consider a career in public service and elected office. It is a gratifying way to spend your life helping others.
Mayor Sue Klinkhamer (center right, in red) and family members are honored with a plaque in a ceremony at City Hall on December 12, 2016.
