Walker was arrested in NYC for her dress reform activism, highlighting her defiance of societal norms.
In July 1866, Mary Edwards Walker was arrested in New York City for wearing trousers and a frock coat instead of conventional women's attire. This arrest was part of her ongoing battle for dress reform, challenging the restrictive societal norms of the time. Walker's act of civil disobedience was both controversial and symbolic, emphasizing her commitment to gender equality and freedom of choice in how women present themselves. Her visibility as an activist helped galvanize further support for women's rights and dress reform movements.