Women's History Month

Chapter 9

"The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity." - AMELIA EARHART [1897-1937]

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March is a time for many celebrations, one of the most important being Women’s History Month.

Women’s History Month is a time to recognize and pay tribute to women's contributions to America’s culture, society, and history. Join me today as we celebrate this beautiful event and admire the work of some women who have gone down in history!

Origins:
The origins of this holiday can be traced back to Women’s History Week, which was first celebrated in 1980 after being proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter. Due to the demand and growing popularity, Congress expanded the event and dedicated all of March to women’s history in 1987.

March was chosen because it aligns with International Women’s Day on March 8th, a day recognized globally and has been promoting and advocating for gender equality since the 1900s.

Honoring Women:
Women have played a crucial role in shaping American history, overcoming adversity, and leaving long-lasting impacts on our lives. Now, I’d like to take the time to bring some attention to their contributions.

Women such as Susan B. Anthony and Carrie Chapman Catt fought tirelessly for women’s rights, particularly in the suffrage movement. Susan and Carrie were key leaders during the American women’s suffrage movement. They became prominent role models for their contributions to protesting and organizing events. Carrie proposed revolutionary political strategies (i.e. the “Winning Plan”) and secured the passage of the 19th Amendment, which gave women their right to vote.

We’ve had scientists such as Marie Curie and Rosalind Franklin make groundbreaking discoveries. Marie Curie is known for literally discovering the elements polonium and radium, as well as being the only person ever to win a Nobel Prize in two scientific fields, Physics and Chemistry. Biophysicist Rosalind Franklin is often uncredited for her contributions to the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA, a molecule that encodes genetic information.

There are also many poets and writers. This includes Maya Angelou and Virginia Woolf, who have changed literature with their powerful words. Her most famous work, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings is one of seven autobiographical novels Maya Angelou wrote. Virginia Woolf is renowned as a leading modernist writer, known for her innovative books and feminist essays, such as A Room Of One’s Own.

Celebrating Women’s History Month:
I highly encourage you all to take part in Women’s History Month. It is of utmost importance to recognize the women who have shaped our world today, as well as encourage other young girls to do so. If you need some ideas as to how you can contribute, skim through the list below!

1. Learn: Take the time to research some lesser-known women who have made a difference in our history. Learn their names—most of them do not have the recognition they deserve.
2. Support Women-Owned Businesses: Use this month to show appreciation for the hardworking female entrepreneurs and business owners.
3. Attend An Event: Many events such as lectures and film screenings aim to spread the word about women’s history—attend one!
4. Volunteer For Women-Focused Organisations: Support nonprofits that advocate for women’s rights, health, and education.
5. Share The Word: Spark up conversation with younger generations, share stories through social media, or more! Highlighting women’s achievements spreads awareness and inspiration.

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Women’s History Month is not only a chance to reflect on our past but also look to make improvements in our future. We should all continue to work towards a world where women have equality, recognition, and just as importantly, opportunities to make a difference. Thank you to all the women who have worked to create a better future, and happy Women’s History Month!

Written by Daphne Clarke.
Edited by Marietta Oizys.
Proofread by Ivy Dewdrop.