As March threatens to come in like a lion in our neck of the woods, it also ushers in Women’s History Month—a time to reflect on the remarkable contributions of women throughout history and to recognize the ongoing efforts of feminists striving toward equality today.
Women’s History Month began as a “Women’s History Week” celebration in 1978. The Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women initiated this local observance to coincide with International Women’s Day. It quickly spread, gaining momentum until in 1980, the National Women’s History Alliance successfully lobbied for national recognition. That February, President Jimmy Carter issued to first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History week. The movement continued to grow and in 1987, Congress designated March Women’s History Month, ensuring annual recognition of the pivotal role of women in shaping our nation.
Throughout history, numerous women have championed progressive causes and advocated for social justice, equality, and workers’ rights.
Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) supported working women and helped advance discussions on gender equality. As First Lady, she was a fierce advocate for women’s rights and civil rights. She played a key role in the creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—an international document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly that enshrines the rights and freedoms of all human beings.
Claudia Jones (1915-1964) was a Trinidad-born journalist and activist. She became a prominent figure in the US Communist Party during the 1930s and fervently advocated for civil rights, gender equality, and anti-imperialism. She emphasized the triple oppression faced by black women due to race, class, and gender. Her work laid the foundation for intersectional feminism, highlighting the interconnectedness of social injustices.
Bella Abzug (1920-1996), nicknamed Battling Bella, was an American lawyer, politician, and social activist who co-founded the National Women’s Political Caucus in 1971, introduced the first federal LGBTQ+ rights bill in 1974, and championed the Equal Rights Amendment and reproductive rights.
Kamala Harris (1964-) was the first female Vice President of the United States. She advocated for gender pay equity, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ protections. She also co-sponsored the Equality Act to provide comprehensive anti-discrimination protections.
As we commemorate Women’s History Month this year, it’s essential to reflect on the current state of women’s rights in the United States. Though we have made great progress over the years, every day we face new challenges that require our vigilance and action.
Recently we have seen the erosion of reproductive rights. Several states have passed restrictive laws limiting access to reproductive healthcare, completely undermining the protections established by Roe v. Wade. These developments threaten to reverse decades of hard-fought gains in women’s (and AFAB and intersex persons’) autonomy over their bodies and healthcare decisions.
Moreover, despite the GOP attempt to force births, the ongoing debates surrounding paid family leave, equal pay, and affordable childcare continue to highlight the economic disparities that disproportionately affect women.
In light of these challenges, Women’s History Month serves to remind us of the absolute necessity for continued advocacy and activism. Here in Scioto County, we can honor the legacies of our foremothers by supporting and engaging with local organizations, advocating for policy change by contacting local and state representatives, and voting in federal, state, and local elections (see you at the polls!).
This month, as we celebrate Women’s History, let’s draw inspiration from the past and commit to building a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive. This journey toward equality is ongoing, we each have a role to play in shaping a more equitable society.
Sources & Additional Reading: