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Join the League of Women Voters for Women’s History Month on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 for the play screening from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at The Heritage Society’s museum gallery at 1100 Bagby Street.

The First Ladies portrayed in 'Tea for Three'—Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon, and Betty Ford—hold significant historical importance for various reasons:

1. Lady Bird Johnson (1912-2007)

• Environmental Advocacy: As First Lady from 1963 to 1969, she championed environmental causes, notably the Highway Beautification Act of 1965, which aimed to improve the appearance of highways across America.

• Civil Rights: She played a role in her husband's Great Society programs, which sought to eliminate poverty and racial injustice.

• Public Image: Lady Bird's focus on beautification and her public persona helped redefine the role of First Lady, emphasizing activism and social issues.

2. Pat Nixon (1912-1993)

• Supportive Role: Serving as First Lady from 1969 to 1974, Pat Nixon was known for her loyalty and support of her husband, Richard Nixon, during his presidency and the Watergate scandal.

• Advocacy for the Arts: She promoted the arts and education and was involved in numerous charitable organizations.

• Public Engagement: Pat Nixon was one of the first First Ladies to travel extensively, representing the U.S. abroad and engaging with various communities.

3. Betty Ford (1918-2011)

• Health Advocacy: As First Lady from 1974 to 1977, Betty Ford was open about her battles with breast cancer, bringing awareness to women's health issues and promoting breast cancer screenings.

• Substance Abuse Awareness: After leaving the White House, she became a prominent advocate for addiction recovery, founding the Betty Ford Center, which helped countless individuals struggling with substance abuse.

• Feminist Icon: Betty Ford was known for her progressive views on women's rights, including her support for the Equal Rights Amendment.

Conclusion

These First Ladies not only shaped their husbands' presidencies but also left lasting legacies in social, environmental, and health advocacy. Their stories reflect the evolving role of women in politics and society, highlighting the impact of their contributions beyond the traditional confines of the First Lady's role.

How are you honoring Women's Equality Day?  Come spend it with The League of Women's Voters of Houston and several women's groups at The Heritage Society's Museum Gallery for dessert, wine, and inspiration.  

The event is on Friday, August 26, from 4 PM to 6 PM.  The Heritage Society is located at 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, 77002.  

Guest Speakers:

Dr. Annie Johnson Benifield, president of the League of Women Voters of Houston

Dr. Leandra Zarnow, associate professor of History and affiliate faculty in Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies at the University of Houston

Sculpture Artist Carolyn Marks Johnson will lead a private tour of the exhibit Woman: Spirit of the Universe and learn about women who made history

Please RSVP to lwoods@heritagesociety.org by Wednesday, August 24.  Parking is free at 212 Dallas Street, by the Kellum-Noble House.

About Women's Equality Day:  In 1973, the U.S. Congress designated August 26 as “Women’s Equality Day.” The date was selected to commemorate the 1920 certification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, granting women the right to vote. The observance of Women’s Equality Day not only commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment but also calls attention to women’s continuing efforts toward full equality. 

This event is free as a members' benefit.  If you are not a member, you can easily join and receive invites to all our special events and celebrations.  If you need to renew your membership, simply RSVP and indicate that you need to renew.