House Moves To Create Women’s History Trail With Vitolo’s Support

BROOKLINE, MA — Last week, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed legislation that would create a Women’s Rights History Trail program promoting education and awareness of the fight for women’s rights in Massachusetts.

The bill would require the secretary of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, in conjunction with executive director or the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, to develop and implement a Women’s Rights History Trail program that designates properties and sites as historically and thematically associated with the struggle for women’s rights and suffrage.

“Our history is often told from a male perspective that brushes over the impact that women have had in our Commonwealth and our country,” said Brookline Rep. Tommy Vitolo in a statement. “I look forward to walking the trail and learning more about the women who have contributed to our community. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House, the lead sponsors, and to the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators for their work on this bill.”

The legislation, approved by the House of Representatives 154-0, would establish a Women’s Rights History Trail Task Force to research, solicit public input, and make recommendations for sites, properties, and attractions to be included in the Women’s Rights History Trail program.

"The establishment of this trail continues Massachusetts’ commitment to honoring women while also creating additional tourism and economic opportunities across the Commonwealth,” said Rep. Carole Fiola in a statement. "It was an honor to pass this legislation during Women's History Month."

The bill now goes to the Senate before reaching the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.