It’s All About Ann: How a one-term governor ignited an entire generation

By Nancy Monroe

 In a politically charged season, what better play to produce than ANN, the story of a feisty woman who broke the political glass ceiling while championing women and minorities.  Her turquoise eyes and big, white Texas hair, along with her plain-spoken populism, grabbed the attention of the nation at a time when women were still struggling for equal pay and leadership positions in the workplace.

Ann Richards only served one term as governor of Texas, but her trailblazing extended well beyond her 1991-1995 term and the Texas borders. She was smart and sassy, and her one-liners hit their target every time. Her most famous zinger was during the 1988 Democratic Convention when as state treasurer she delivered a fiery keynote, lamenting that poor George H.W. Bush, the incumbent running for president, couldn’t help his many faux pas, since “he was born with a silver foot in his mouth.”

Ironically, it was Bush’s son, “W,” who defeated her for governor in 1994.

During her term, Richards made significant headway. She promoted women and minorities to senior positions in her administration and was known for having gays and lesbians work on her campaign. In a controversial move, she banned permits for carrying concealed handguns (in Texas!!)  and limited access to assault weapons. A former teacher, Richards made improving education for every child high on her to-do list, as well as prison reform.

She was a feminist who cleared the runway for female leaders in government, the private sector and through her Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders.

Richards had a silver tongue. Some of the feminist quotes credited to her include:

“There's a special place in hell for women who don't help other women.”

“In politics, if you want anything said, ask a man. If you want anything done, ask a woman.”

“There's nothing more powerful than a woman who knows her worth and refuses to settle for less.”

 “Women need a seat at the table, even if they have to bring their own chair.”

A child of the Depression, Richards believed education was the catalyst for better lives. And even though she advocated bringing your own chair to the table, when you attend our performance of ANN starring Angela Timberman, we have a seat already reserved for you.

 Want more information on Ann Richards? Check out the books below written both on her and by her.

Reading list:

· The One Ann Only: Wit and Wisdom of Texas Governor Ann Richards by Ann Richards Legacy Project

· Straight from the Heart: My Life in Politics & Other Places by Ann Richards

· Indelible Ann: The Larger-than-Life Story of Gov. Ann Richards, a children’s book by Meghan P. Browne, et al

· Let the People In: The. Life and Times of Ann Richards by Jan Reid