WORCESTER, Mass. - Gov. Charlie Baker took part in a ceremonial bill signing at Mechanics Hall in Worcester Thursday which will lead to the promotion of women's history throughout the commonwealth.
The bill will provide for the creation of a women's rights history trail in Massachusetts. Baker said the goal of the trail will be to educate and raise awareness about the Massachusetts women who have fought for equality.
Kathleen Gagne, executive director of Mechanics Hall, said the historic venue was a fitting place to sign the bill.
“Absolutely appropriate because our stage is so important to the women’s rights movement," said Gagne. "And the entire building is so important to the history of not just central Massachusetts but the entire commonwealth, and in a large part, the nation as well. And so, any historic milestone is celebrated here with honor and dignity and we’re delighted to have it. ”
Mechanics Hall's gallery has four portraits of women's rights advocated from central Massachusetts who had an impact nationwide. The hall is also in the process of commissioning three portraits of 19th century Black Americans who were important to the story of Worcester, women's rights and the abolition of slavery.