Historic interpreter portrays Jeannette Rankin in library presentation

The Whitefish Community Library hosts a Montana Conversation program “Jeannette Rankin: America’s Conscience” on Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m.

Historic interpreter and scholar Mary Jane Bradbury portrays Jeannette Rankin in the presentation, which is free and open to the public.

Born to privilege in 19th Century Montana, Jeannette Rankin found her passion working for child-labor and welfare reform. Humanitarian, pacifist, and tireless advocate for social reform, Jeannette Rankin became the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress, and the only member of Congress to vote against U.S. entry into both world wars. Bradbury brings Rankin to life to tell about her journey from grassroots suffragist to being the first woman to participate in United State government. Hear in Rankin’s own words her views on equality and government reform — words that ring true today, on the 100th anniversary of passage of the 19th amendment allowing women to vote.

Bradbury brings history to life for audiences of all ages. She is an artist in residence for the CM Russell Museum in Great Falls and the Montana Historical Society in Helena.

For more information, call Whitefish Community Library at 405-862-9914.