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Celebrate Women’s History Month Written by: Olivia Frymark

We celebrate Women’s History Month to honor the remarkable contributions and achievements of women throughout history and in contemporary society. This special month offers a dedicated opportunity to recognize and appreciate the trailblazers who have paved the way for equality, justice, and innovation. By highlighting women’s stories, struggles, and successes, we pay homage to their legacy and inspire future generations to continue breaking barriers and shaping a more inclusive world.

The History of Women’s History Month

Until the late 70s, women’s history was not studied as a part of the public school curriculum. To mitigate this concern, the Education Task Force of Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women created “Women’s History Week” in 1978. Two years later, President Jimmy Carter declared the week of March 8th a national celebration and encouraged everyone in the United States to participate.

The observation was specifically chosen for this week to include the celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD), which always takes place on March 8th. Since it first began in 1911, IWD celebrates the “social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women,” calls for action to accelerate gender parity, and fundraises for “female-focused” charities. In 1987, Congress passed a resolution to extend Women’s History Week to become a month-long celebration in March.

How You Can Get Involved

There are many different things we can do to further our education and celebrate the strength of women this month.

  • The National Museum of Women in the Arts advocates for better representation of women artists and serves as a vital center for thought leadership, community engagement, and social change. They’re hosting a number of events this month for you to get involved and learn more!
  • Take time to learn about American women in politics, their timeline of representation, and their influence on today’s society.
  • Support female business owners and entrepreneurs in Washington, DC, and beyond.
  • Read books by female authors that celebrate the female experience.
  • Explore and amplify the voices of female musicians and artists.
  • Watch a film about famous women in history.
  • Support a women’s nonprofit organization. If you can, donate in support of a charity focused on women’s empowerment.
  • Recognize the powerful women who came before you and continue to advocate for the basic human rights women deserve today. There are a lot of current women’s issues at stake – Pregnancy and Parenting Discrimination, Violence Against Women, Women’s Rights in the Workplace, Women’s Rights in Education, and Women and Criminal Justice. Stay informed and take action when you can. Whether you have a lot or a little time, there’s plenty that can be done to help the cause.