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Why Do We Celebrate Women's History Month?
Women's History Month is a dedicated month to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of women to United States history. From Abigail Adams to Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth to Rosa Parks, the timeline of women's history milestones stretches back to the founding of the United States.
The actual celebration of Women's History Month grew out of a weeklong celebration of women's contributions to culture, history and society organized by the school district of Sonoma,, in 1978. Presentations were given at dozens of schools, hundreds of students participated in a "Real Woman" essay contest and a parade was held in downtown Santa Rosa.
A few years later, the idea caught on within communities, school districts and organizations across the country. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women's History Week. The U.S. Congress followed suit the next year, passing a resolution establishing a national celebration. Six years later, the National Women's History Project successfully petitioned Congress to expand the event to the entire month of March.
Women's History Month Theme 2023
The National Women's History Alliance, which spearheaded the movement for March being declared National Women's History Month, has announced the women's history theme for 2023, "Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories."
Throughout 2023, the NWHA will encourage recognition of women, past and present, who have been active in all forms of media and storytelling including print, radio, TV, stage, screen, blogs, podcasts, and more. The timely theme honors women in every community who have devoted their lives and talents to producing art, pursuing truth, and reflecting the human condition decade after decade.
From the earliest storytellers through pioneering journalists, our experiences have been captured by a wide variety of artists and teachers. These include authors, songwriters, scholars, playwrights, performers, and grandmothers throughout time. Women have long been instrumental in passing on our heritage in word and in print to communicate the lessons of those who came before us. Women's stories, and the larger human story, expand our understanding and strengthen our connections with each other.
As in previous years, the Alliance, which is centered in Santa Rosa, California, will encourage local communities throughout the country to use the year's theme to guide their own celebrations. The NWHA will popularize national efforts through on-line celebrations, a special magazine and thematic products that recognize and honor these brave, accomplished and influential women who told - and continue to tell - our stories. Today and over the years ahead, their dedication and shared desire to give voice to the voiceless are critical to keeping us informed, entertained and aware.
Written by: History.com Editors, National Women's History Alliance, and Skylar Washington
Sources:
National Women's History Alliance. (2023, February 15). 2023 theme. National Women's History Alliance. Retrieved March 20, 2023, from https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/2023-theme/
