Exploring Women’s History Month
It’s hard to admit that I haven’t delved much into Women’s History Month but I’m admitting it … I haven’t. According to history.com, Women’s History Month celebrates the invaluable contributions of women to history, culture, and society. Observed annually in March in the United States since 1987, this significant celebration touches the lives of women young and old in very real ways.
Reflecting, I realize that during the inaugural year of Women’s History Month, I was starting my own professional journey in my early twenties. Little did I know, I was stepping into history in the making.
The roots of Women’s History Month can be traced back to the inception of International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 1911. An inclusive movement for groups and communities everywhere, IWD imagines a world that celebrates gender equality and is free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. Inspire Inclusion is this year’s theme with an emphasis on forging a better world through a stronger sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment for all women.
The concept of dedicating an entire month to women’s history gained momentum during the feminist movement of the 1970s. In the United States, following a resolution passed by Congress, it evolved from a week-long observance in the late 1970s to a month-long tribute in 1987.
In 2024, the Women’s History Month theme – Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion – recognizes the women who champion the dismantling of bias and discrimination, echoing the sentiment of civil rights activist Rosa Parks, “You must never be fearful about what you are doing when it is right.”
Throughout the month, a variety of events, initiatives, and programs are organized to honor the remarkable achievements and enduring struggles of women including politics, science, literature, arts, sports, and social activism. It serves as a pivotal moment to amplify awareness about women’s contributions, advocate for gender equality, and champion women’s rights and empowerment.
March has become a canvas for exhibitions, lectures, panel discussions, film screenings, and other engagements, all centering on the rich tapestry of women’s history, issues, and triumphs. It’s a time for introspection on the strides made towards gender parity, while also acknowledging the persistent challenges in addressing ongoing disparities and bias.
This annual celebration serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of women throughout history and in contemporary society. It provides a platform to recognize the often overlooked or marginalized contributions of women and to celebrate the diverse experiences and accomplishments of women from different backgrounds and walks of life. It’s a time to honor the trailblazers who have paved the way for future generations, inspiring ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
What will history be saying about women in another forty years? One thing is for certain, we won’t be quiet in our advocacy for a better society for all. As Madeleine Albright once said, “It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.”
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