During the month of March, we give a little extra attention to all of the amazing accomplishments of strong, determined women. Since 1987, the United States has formally recognized March as National Women’s History Month. Every woman has a story to tell and gifts to share with the world. So get ready, because this month is about honoring magnificent ladies, and we are ready to celebrate it to the fullest. Celebrating this women’s month by supporting women chase her dreams and fulfilling her educational needs by finding her right scholarships from around the world.
History of National Women's History Month
Women’s History Month celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of women in history, society, and culture. It has been annually observed in the United States and other countries, including the United Kingdom and Australia, every March since 1987. The month is observed in October in Canada. March is selected as the month for observing Women’s History Month to correspond with International Women’s Day on March 8, and Canada observes it in October in correspondence with Persons Day on October 18.
The month-long commemoration started with Women’s History Day in 1978, organized by the school district of Sonoma, California. Hundreds of students participated in the essay competitions, many presentations were given, and a parade was held in Santa Rosa. The idea caught on and, a few years later, school districts, communities, and organizations all over the country were celebrating the day. In 1980, the National Women’s History Alliance championed for the holiday to be observed as a national week, and this was backed by President Jimmy Carter, who issued the first proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. The following year, Congress forwarded a resolution establishing a national observance. Six years later, the expansion of the event to the whole month of March was successfully petitioned by the National Women’s History Project.
National Women's History Month timeline
Women are granted the right to vote thanks to the 19th Amendment.
Sandra Day O’Connor is the first woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court.
Sally Ride becomes the first woman in space.
Hillary Rodham Clinton is the first woman to be nominated for president by a major political party.
National Women's History Month FAQs
Why do we celebrate Women's History Month?
Women’s History Month is dedicated to the accomplishments and achievements of women in U.S. history that are often overlooked.
Who is the founder of women's history?
The founders of the American non-profit organization National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) are Molly Murphy MacGregor, Mary Ruthsdotter, Maria Cuevas, Paula Hammett, and Bette Morgan.
What was the theme of Women's History Month for 2020?
The theme for National Women’s History Month in 2020 was ‘Valiant Women of the Vote.’
How to Observe National Women's History Month
Put it in writing
Think of a woman you look up to and admire. She can be someone in your personal life or a public figure. Write her a letter describing the impact she has had on your life. Your thoughtful gesture is sure to be appreciated.
Have a girl's lunch
Lunch, breakfast, or dinner — it doesn’t matter. Grab your granny, cousin Cheryl, or great-aunt Mimi and grab a bite to eat. Having the chance to spend some one-on-one time with the lovely ladies in your life is a great way to reconnect and remind them how much they mean to you. Who knows, they may even tell some interesting stories you’ve never heard before.
Read up on women's history
There are some excellent museums dedicated entirely to the accomplishments of women. If you don’t happen to live near one of these places, many venues set up special exhibits during National Women’s History Month.
5 Powerful Facts About Women
Women have always been present
Women have always been present in the military, temporarily and voluntarily.
Army Nurse and Navy Nurse divisions
The Army Nurse Corps was created in 1901 and the Navy Nurse Corps was created in 1908.
Progressive 1900s
Married women were allowed to own property in their own name and keep their own wages in the 1900s.
First of its kind
The first college to accept women was Salem College, founded in 1772.
Who runs the world?
More than 30% of all businesses today are owned and run by women.
Why National Women's History Month is Important
We haven't given women their due attention
For many years, women weren’t acknowledged enough in historical texts. This isn’t because they weren’t in the midst of important discoveries or helping out with important conquests. It’s mainly because men wrote the majority of historical documents for thousands of years. In March, we dig deep to uncover many of the important roles women have played throughout history.
Women are inspirational
Learning about women who have stood up for their rights and fought for what they believe is fantastic motivation. We all have the power to influence the direction our world is headed in, and National Women’s History Month reminds us of that.
It recognizes the strength and power of women
It’s easy to get caught up in the grind of daily life, but this month is an excellent opportunity to put a spotlight on all of the major things women accomplish each and every day. From domestic chores and carrying babies to fighting wars and governing countries, women are pretty darn amazing.
National Women's History Month dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | March 1 | Saturday |
2026 | March 1 | Sunday |
2027 | March 1 | Monday |
2028 | March 1 | Wednesday |
2029 | March 1 | Thursday |