The Santa Cruz County and Monterey Bay Peninsula Branches of the American Association of University Women are hosting a luncheon celebrating the centennial of women’s suffrage and focusing on Matilda Gage. The luncheon takes place Saturday, Feb. 29, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Seascape Beach Resort.
The keynote speaker is Angelica Shirley Carpenter, renowned author of women’s history books. Her newest book is, “Born Criminal: Matilda Joslyn Gage, Radical Suffragist.”
Gage was a leader in the early women’s movement, working closely with Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Gage fought for women’s right to vote and more: equal pay for equal work, equality in property and child custody laws, and a woman’s right to control her own body.
An author, she was controversial for her opinion that organized religion oppressed women. She balanced work with care for a large, loving family. Her youngest daughter, Maud, married L. Frank Baum, who wrote “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”
Carpenter will have copies of her book on hand for $20 cash or check and sign books afterward.
Attendees are asked to wear white to celebrate this historical event. A limited number of centennial pins will be on hand for sale; $5 suggested donation for each, cash or check. A photo booth with a Susan B. Anthony cut-out will be available for personal photo taking.
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Seascape Beach Resort: 1 Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos. Cost is $26 (includes lunch). Prepaid reservations are required with Kathy Poulson 831-324-0760. Mail check to AAUW MPB to P.O. Box 1786 Monterey, CA 93942. Information: https://santacruz-ca.aauw.net/files/2020/01/Beacon-Jan.-2020-_compressed.pdf.
Note meal choice: Turkey club or veggie wrap.