The month of March is known for the start of spring and a new beginning for all for this new season. However, March should also be known for Women’s History Month, a time to appreciate women and their contributions.
Before Women’s History Month was established, a large group of women proposed an annual “Women’s Day” in 1910, but there was no day that was assigned as “Women’s Day.” Ever since March 8 was established as International Women’s Day, the week of March 8 was planned to be Women’s History Week in 1978, but a month dedicated to Women’s history seemed more appealing. Once Women’s History Month was finally petitioned, Congress officially set March as Women’s History Month in 1988.
The overall intention of celebrating Women’s History Month is to focus on the women rights’ movement, rights regarding gender equality and reproduction. It is overall dedicated to appreciating women and their participation in benefitting the country throughout history and even now. Because specific people of different races, religions or sexual orientations are celebrated, women should also be celebrated for their countless achievements that shape the world today.
The 2024 theme for Women’s History Month is “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” According to National Women’s History Alliance, the theme this year acknowledges that establishing a finer future, getting rid of any sort of bias and discrimination from society. This theme is overall dedicated to embracing all kinds of women and making them feel special during a month that should be special to them.
Paige Bergman (11) comments about this year’s theme: “I really like this year’s theme because it emphasizes inclusion for all women around the world.”
During this time, women finally gather up the courage to speak out against injustice and fight gender inequality or sexism. To progress and follow through with this year’s theme, many women plan to examine social policies and behaviors that are harmful to the community. As oppressed individuals themselves, women have an intense drive to assist other individuals who are oppressed or feel they have no voice.
Not only should women’s history be celebrated but also women themselves. A “thank you” note or letter to a woman that has impacted your life is a simple way to display appreciation and gratitude. Even more, sending a gift from a women-owned business is overall the best way to show support towards women who are doing their utmost ability to manage a business themselves.
For a more historical perspective on women, a good celebration can come from education through films or podcasts about iconic women such as Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly alone across the Atlantic Ocean, and Rosa Parks, an American activist who participated in the Montgomery bus boycott. These small activities can become a group activity as well with a book club, appreciating women and their accomplishments through literature.
Maria Attia (11) shares how she is going to celebrate Women’s History Month: “During this month, I’m going to educate myself by watching documentaries about women who paid large contributions to shape the world we have today.”
Women, whether they be a daughter, mother, grandmother, partner, role model or good friend, they deserve to be valued and respected especially during this month. Even after this month is over, women should still be treated like the wonderful ladies they are.
