Every year in March, the United States recognizes all of the achievements women have accomplished over the years. Not only are they recognized, but they are celebrated every day of the month.
This month is to highlight the contributions of women to events in history. It all started with its first national observance in 1980, when it was just Women’s History Week. 1987, after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project. So the Congress passed “Pub. L. 100-9” (Women’s History month), which designated March as National Women’s Month every year.
This month is important because it highlights the great achievements women have made across many fields. Such as politics, science, art, civil rights, and so many other fields.
Some important women who helped shape America into what it is today include Harriet Tubman, who escaped slavery and helped lead others to freedom through the Underground Railroad. Shirley Chisholm, who was the first black woman to be elected to the United States Congress.
And Susan B. Anthony, who was the key leader in the fight for women’s voting rights, which later lead to the nineteenth amendment to the United States Constitution.
During World War II, millions of women started to work in factories and jobs that men had left because they went to war. As a result of that, a symbol called “Rosie the Riveter became famous for representing strong working women during the war. Women weren’t just working hard then but are still working hard by leading major companies, governments, and scientific discoveries.
Women will often wear purple this month because the color purple represents justice, dignity, and loyalty to the women’s rights movements. Women in leadership roles is important in shaping the future in students. Ben Davis Principal Sandi Squire said “I am honored to be the first woman principal at Ben Davis High School, though it seems, in this time and age, that there should not be any more ‘first woman’ happenings.”
With that great reminder from our principal that first women happenings can still happen that same message is being echoed by our superintendent. Wayne Township Superintendent Shenia Suggs says, “The women who have shaped education, science, the arts, leadership, and nearly every corner of human life didn’t always have someone in their corner telling them they belonged. Many pushed forward anyway.
“Their courage changed the world. When I think about who our students are becoming, I think about that same courage. I believe deeply that everyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from deserves to be heard, to be seen, and to be given every chance to discover what they’re capable of.
“So as we celebrate International Women’s Day, I hope students will think about the women in their own lives who have shaped them, a mother, a teacher, a coach, a friend, and carry a little of their strength with them. Their courage, compassion, and determination strengthen our community every day. May we continue to uplift one another, challenge barriers, and inspire every student to pursue their dreams without limits.”
