Women's History Month is a yearly celebration held in March to recognize the contributions of women throughout history and in contemporary society.
The month-long observance has a rich history, and over the years, it has evolved significantly. In this blog, we will explore the differences and similarities of Women's Month then and now.
THEN: Origins of Women's History Month
The roots of Women's Month can be traced back to the early 20th century when women began demanding greater rights and recognition for their contributions to society. In 1908, a group of women staged a protest in New York City, calling for better working conditions, the right to vote, and an end to child labor. This protest inspired the first National Women's Day, which was celebrated on February 28th, 1909.
In 1978, the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County, California Commission on the Status of Women initiated a "Women's History Week" celebration. The event was timed to coincide with International Women's Day on March 8th, and it was the first formal recognition of women's contributions to American history.
In 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8th as National Women's History Week. The proclamation stated that the week would be set aside to honor "the too-often neglected accomplishments of women in American history.”
NOW: Women's History Month Today
In 1987, Congress passed a resolution designating March as Women's Month. Since then, every U.S. president has issued a proclamation honoring the month. Today, Women's History Month is celebrated across the country, with events, lectures, and exhibits highlighting the contributions of women to American history and contemporary society.
Remarkable Differences:
Visibility: Women's History Month is now more widely recognized and celebrated than ever before. Today, it is widely observed by schools, libraries, museums, and other institutions, and there is a much greater awareness of women's contributions to society.
Diversity: While the origins of Women's History Month were primarily focused on celebrating the achievements of white, middle-class women, today's celebrations are much more diverse. There is a greater focus on highlighting the contributions of women from all backgrounds, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities.
Intersectionality: Today's celebrations of Women's History Month are much more intersectional, recognizing that women's experiences are shaped by their race, class, sexuality, and other factors. This intersectional approach helps to highlight the unique contributions of women who have been historically marginalized or overlooked.
Remarkable Similarities:
Focus on Women's Contributions: Despite the evolution of Women's History Month over the years, the central focus remains on celebrating the contributions of women to society. Whether it is highlighting women's achievements in science, politics, or the arts, the month is a time to honor the impact that women have had on history and culture.
Advocacy for Gender Equality: Women's History Month is still a time to advocate for gender equality and to recognize the ongoing struggles that women face in achieving full equality. Whether it is fighting for equal pay, reproductive rights, or an end to gender-based violence, Women's History Month is a time to recognize the progress that has been made and to redouble efforts to achieve full gender equality.
Conclusion
Women's History Month has come a long way since its origins in the early 20th century. Today, it is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women throughout history and in contemporary society, and to recognize the ongoing struggle for gender equality. While the celebrations have evolved significantly over the years, the central focus remains on highlighting the contributions of women and advocating for a more just and equitable world.
