Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
110 students from the S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program at Stern College for Women recently attended a performance of the highly acclaimed musical "Suffs." The musical, which focuses on the historical suffragists' fight for the right to vote, has been praised for its portrayal of the brave and determined women who played a crucial role in securing the 19th Amendment.
The musical introduces the audience to key suffragists such as Alice Paul, Lucy Burns, Inez Milholland, Doris Stevens, and Ruza Wenclawska, as they work towards organizing a suffragist march in Washington D.C. amidst challenges and opposition from figures like Carrie Catt and President Wilson.
Throughout the show, the suffragists face numerous obstacles on their journey towards achieving voting rights, with President Wilson depicted as a villain who refuses to consider their demands. Despite setbacks and challenges, the women persevere, culminating in the eventual passing of the voting rights amendment.
Vered Gottlieb ‘26S, a student involved in the writing of this article, highlighted the significance of the musical in portraying the historic struggle for equality that transcended generational, racial, and class barriers. The musical resonated with the honors students for its entertaining yet informative presentation of this pivotal moment in history.
The performance of "Suffs" not only entertained the students but also served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and perseverance of the suffragists in their fight for equality.