WASHINGTON, D.C. (NEXSTAR) — A significant new monument dedicated to the women’s suffrage movement has been sanctioned for the National Mall. This marks the inaugural permanent tribute to the lengthy battle for women’s voting rights on this iconic American site.

Earlier this month, the National Capital Planning Commission gave the green light for the Women’s Suffrage National Monument, which will be situated in Constitution Gardens. Located close to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and just a short walk from the Reflecting Pool, the monument will occupy an area of about 2.5 acres.

The National Mall, a destination for over 25 million visitors each year, is expected to offer a more comprehensive narrative of American democracy with the addition of this new monument.

“Our aim is to create something that pays tribute to our foremothers and equally motivates future generations to strive toward a more perfect union,” expressed Anna Laymon, president and CEO of the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation.

Laymon mentioned that this approval follows four years of dedicated advocacy, involving the passage of two legislative bills and garnering support from all living former first ladies in addition to numerous women’s organizations nationwide.

“We wouldn’t have gotten to this point if the women of this country hadn’t stood beside us and said, ‘This matters,’” Laymon said. “These were women who were fighting for equality, who were fighting for full personhood in a democracy.”

With the site now approved, the foundation’s next step is selecting a design. Laymon said the group plans to begin accepting design submissions next year. No timeline has been announced for the completion or unveiling of the monument.

“We have big plans for next year,” she said.

The monument will be funded entirely through private donations. Organizers say they hope the finished memorial will educate visitors and inspire future leaders.

Laymon said the project is also deeply personal.

“I have a daughter who is five, and when I get to bring her to this, that is going to be an extraordinary moment,” she said. “Saying, ‘Look, we did something, and it matters, and you matter.’”

More information about the project and how to contribute can be found on the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation’s website.