Letters: Election can move us toward more perfect union

Guided by the idea of equal rights and privileges for all, Americans have abolished slavery, passed laws requiring fair and equal treatment of the races and elected an African-American president. Our sexual-orientation laws were changed to assure fair and equal treatment of all. While women’s right to vote was delayed while women joined abolitionists in demanding an end to slavery, that right was obtained in 1920.

The election of 2016 presents an opportunity to advance the nation toward a more perfect union. By electing a female president, we would shatter a historic prejudice and advance the liberation of women in America. This is a momentous opportunity for our generation. We are called upon to overcome age-old resistance to equality for women. And we have a well-qualified woman ready to serve as head of our nation. If the United States shall last for a thousand years, this year can be among her finest hours.