Women’s History Month: A Tapestry of Strength, Resilience, and Achievement
March is Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the incredible contributions of women throughout history and across the globe. It’s a month to reflect on the strides we’ve made, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and celebrate the powerful women who have shaped our world. It’s also about looking forward and empowering the next generation of women and girls to dream big, break barriers, and reach their full potential. It’s about creating a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of her background or circumstances.
From groundbreaking scientists and fearless activists to visionary artists and inspiring leaders, women have consistently defied expectations and shattered glass ceilings. Their stories, often untold or overlooked, are a testament to their strength, resilience, and unwavering determination. This month, we delve into these narratives at the Women in Art and Women in Photography exhibitions, reclaiming and amplifying the voices that have too often been silenced.
Let us use this month as a springboard for continued dialogue, education, and action. Let us celebrate the women who have paved the way and continue to champion the women who are shaping the future. Join us!
How Women’s History Month Began
Women’s History Month began as a week-long celebration in Santa Rosa, California, in 1978, organized by the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women. It coincided with International Women’s Day. The idea gained popularity, and in 1980, President Jimmy Carter declared the week of March 8th National Women’s History Week. President Reagan continued this until 1987 when Congress established the entire month of March as Women’s History Month. Since then, every president has issued annual proclamations for the occasion.
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8th, is a pivotal moment during Women’s History Month and has roots in early 20th-century labor movements. While officially recognized by the UN in 1977, its origins trace back to the 1909 National Woman’s Day in the US, honoring striking garment workers. In 1910, Clara Zetkin proposed March 8th as an international day for women’s rights, gaining widespread support by 1911. Initially used to protest World War I, the day became a symbol of broader women’s movements. The UN officially marked it in 1975, and in 1977, the UN General Assembly formalized it as a day for women’s rights and international peace. This global celebration recognizes women’s diverse social, economic, cultural, and political contributions. It serves as both a celebration of women’s power and potential, and a call to action to accelerate progress towards gender equality. This day encourages reflection on the current status of women worldwide and provides a focused opportunity for discussion and action, highlighting the work that remains to achieve true equality.
