Pa. League of Women Voters to hold annual ‘1920 Celebrate the Vote’ event

For the MVI

Pennsylvania League of Women Voters Executive Director Amy Widestrom will be the keynote speaker at 6 p.m. Aug. 20 at the annual 1920 Celebrate the Vote event.

Hosted by the League of Women Voters of Washington County, it will be held at the Elks Lodge 776, East Maiden St., Washington, and commemorates the anniversary of the 19th Amendment and advances in voting rights.

Prior to joining the League, Widestrom served as a faculty member and chair of the Department of Historical and Political Studies at Arcadia University. Her professional background encompasses roles in the nonprofit sector including the Brookings Institution, and the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and theater from Oberlin College and both an M.A. and Ph.D. in political science from Syracuse University. Her academic expertise lies in American politics, with a focus on civic engagement, public policy, elections, and the role of women in the political arena.

Also speaking will be Anita J. Lovell, pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Canonsburg. Lovell has a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Duquesne University and a Master of Divinity degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She retired from UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside Hospital after 37 years of service and has served as pastor at Mt. Olive Baptist Church since 2014.

The Catfish Revival Band will entertain with 1920s reminiscent music. Attendees are encouraged to wear period attire (and dancing shoes).

Admission is $30 and includes light refreshments. Text 412-973-8037 or email jackjez1234@gmail.com to register or for more information. Proceeds will benefit the League of Women Voters of Washington County youth outreach and voter education programs.

Widestrom