“Things which are equal to the same thing are equal to each other. That’s a rule of mathematical reasoning. It’s true because it works. Has done and always will do. In his book, Euclid says this is self-evident. You see, there it is. Even in that 2,000 year old book of mechanical law, it is a self-evident truth that things which are equal to the same thing are equal to each other.”

This quote is from Steven Spielberg’s latest epic movie, Lincoln.  The character of Abraham Lincoln, who was born in 1809, is quoting Euclid, who is estimated to have been born in 325 BC.  If my math is correct that means Euclid lived approximately 2,337 years ago and Lincoln around 159 years ago. These men during each of their respective long ago eras, understood the right and need for equality.  Both men saw it as a basic truism. It is unconscionable that in 2012 we still have not embraced or reached this fundamental concept.

A Woman’s Place (AWP) recently adopted six values, along with new vision and mission statements. One of our six values is as follows:

Equality: A Woman’s Place believes each and every one of us must collaborate to create a new society based in equal power and rights.

As the new year approaches, my hope and challenge is for you to join with AWP and our effort to help create a new world with equality for all, once and for all.

May Peace and Equality be yours,

Jacalyn A. Hartzell
AWP Communications Manager