Emmeline Pankhurst’s Letter on Women’s Suffrage — The Never Ending Resistance
In the early 20th century, the fight for women's suffrage reached its peak in Britain. At the forefront of this struggle was Emmeline Pankhurst, the founder of the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU). Known for their militant tactics and unyielding determination, Pankhurst and her fellow suffragettes fought tirelessly to secure the right to vote for women. Through powerful speeches, letters, and personal correspondence, Pankhurst inspired and organized women to demand political representation.
The Power of Words: Pankhurst’s 1913 "Freedom or Death" Speech
One of Emmeline Pankhurst’s most iconic moments was her 1913 speech in Hartford,
Connecticut, titled "Freedom or Death." During her tour of the United States, she defended the suffragettes’ militant tactics and explained why they were necessary. She declared:
"We are not here because we are law-breakers; we are here in our efforts to become law-makers. We are here to claim our right as women, not only to be free, but to fight for freedom.
It is our privilege as well as our pride and our joy to take part in this militant movement."
This speech encapsulated the suffragettes’ resolve. Pankhurst argued that women were not criminals for demanding their rights but were instead fighting against a system that denied them political equality. Her words resonated deeply, both in the U.S. and back home in Britain, where the suffragettes faced imprisonment, force-feeding, and public scorn.
The Letter to Caroline Phillips: Organizing the Movement
Emmeline Pankhurst’s leadership extended beyond public speeches. Her letter to Caroline Phillips, a dedicated member of the WSPU, offers a glimpse into the suffragettes’ organizational efforts. Written in 1907, the letter discusses the success of a recent demonstration in Nuneaton and outlines plans for future events, including securing dates for the Music Hall after Christmas. Pankhurst also addresses internal challenges, such as the behavior of Mrs. Mayo, who had threatened to leave the Union but remained a source of trouble.
In the letter, Pankhurst reassures Phillips of her importance to the movement, encouraging her to retain her role as Secretary. She writes:
"I hope you will retain the Secretaryship. I think you will get on all right in a very short while."
This letter highlights Pankhurst’s ability to balance the demands of leadership—managing internal conflicts, organizing events, and motivating her team—while keeping the focus on the ultimate goal: winning the vote for women.
The Fight for the Vote: Deeds, Not Words
The suffragettes faced immense opposition from the government and society. Peaceful protests had failed to bring about change, leading the WSPU to adopt the motto: “Deeds, not words.” They engaged in direct action—chaining themselves to railings, smashing windows, and even setting fire to empty buildings—to draw attention to their cause. Pankhurst and her followers believed that disruption was necessary to force the government to listen.
In her 1913 speech, Pankhurst explained the rationale behind their militancy:
"You have to make more noise than anybody else, you have to make yourself more obtrusive than anybody else, you have to fill all the papers more than anybody else, in fact you have to be there all the time and see that they do not snow you under."
This bold approach came at great personal cost. Pankhurst and many suffragettes were arrested multiple times. While in prison, they went on hunger strikes to protest their treatment, enduring brutal force-feeding by authorities. Despite the hardships, Pankhurst urged women to continue the fight, believing that sacrifice was necessary for progress.
The Impact of Pankhurst’s Leadership
Emmeline Pankhurst and the WSPU played a crucial role in changing public opinion. Their sacrifices and relentless campaigning helped push the government toward reform. In 1918, British women over the age of 30 gained the right to vote, and by 1928, the voting age was lowered to 21, granting full suffrage to women on equal terms with men.
Pankhurst’s leadership and the suffragettes’ efforts were instrumental in achieving this victory. Their legacy is a testament to the power of persistence, courage, and collective action.
Why Pankhurst’s Words Still Matter
Emmeline Pankhurst’s speeches, letters, and writings remain relevant today. Her 1913 "Freedom or Death" speech and her letter to Caroline Phillips are reminders that political change often requires bold action, personal sacrifice, and strong organizational leadership.
Women around the world continue to fight for equal rights, and Pankhurst’s message still inspires activists advocating for gender equality, representation, and justice.
Her words were more than just statements—they were calls to action. Over a century later, their spirit lives on in movements that challenge inequality and demand change.
Here is the full text:
VOTES for WOMEN.
The National Women's Social and Political Union.
OFFICE: 4, CLEMENTS INN, STRAND, W.C.
Minx. PANNUERINF,
Committee:
Minx. PETRICHLAMPHERN
Minx. Fraunner,
Member & Hon. Soc.
Minx. Creinervance PANNUERINF
Minx. TWKE, Joint Hon. Soc.
Minx-Creinervance PANNUERINF
Operating Soc.
Bankers:
Minx. NOVERBORDANE HADAY,
Minx. MARY GAVETROUPE,
Minx. N.A. MARTIN
Minx. MARY NMA,
Minx. HUKAURTH HOUSEN,
Telephones: 800 Holborn.
Telegraphic Address: WOSPOLL LONDON.
All Communications,
underworld 'privat' will depend
18th November 1907
by one of the Non Secretaries.
Miss Phillips,
18-22 Broad Street,
Aberdeen.
Dear Miss Phillips,
Thank you for your letter.
We had a very successful demonstration at Nuneaton on Saturday.
I suppose you will enquire at once the available dates for the Music Hall after Christmas. On hearing from you, I will approach Mr. Zangwill.
Mrs. Mayo not long ago said she would leave the Union—it is a great pity she did not keep her word. She seems to be giving you a great deal of trouble.
I do not quite know when the Hull election will be, but as soon as it is over, Mrs. Pankhurst will be free to go to Scotland.
We must have the drawing room meeting.
Mr. Murray is ill at present, so he has not been able to pay further attention to the matter of the deputation.
I hope you will retain the Secretaryship. I think you will get on all right in a very short while.
Sincerely yours,
Emmeline Pankhurst.
