Women comprise a majority of the population, yet remain underrepresented within American government. They represent a minority in offices at federal and state levels with rare exception. Indiana trails most national numbers and remains one of only 5 states in the country to never have a female governor or senator. This critical lack of representation certainly does not reflect a void of talent but it does press the larger question of “why?” Addressing this problem by explaining key research findings, exploring larger trends, and analyzing influential factors will enable us to work toward encouraging and electing more women in politics.
This talk bridges historical narratives with current statistics in exploring and understanding why there are not more women in Indiana politics and how we can address this critical underrepresentation. This is an important message to be included in the speaker’s bureau because it builds on the foundational concepts pursued by the suffrage movement in terms of gender equality, taking them a step further in examining the role of women and their lack of parity in public office. It is timely not just in the centennial commemoration of suffrage but also corresponding to a major presidential election and important statewide offices. Amidst larger conversations of the fight and ultimate achievement of women’s the right to vote, we should look back at the last 100 years and forward to the next 100 to understand how women have become successful in securing public office and how they can capitalize on social and political changes to being better represented in the future.

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