The month of March is dedicated to celebrating Women’s History, with March 8 being International Women’s Day. While many people are aware of March’s significance, most don’t know why Women’s History is celebrated or how to celebrate it.
Women’s History Month is a time to recognize the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. It began as a local celebration in 1978 when a school district in California organized a “Women’s History Week” around International Women’s Day on March 8. The moment gained national attention, and in 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued a proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week.
As support grew, Congress passed a resolution in 1987 to officially designate March as Women’s History Month. Since then, the month has been dedicated to honoring the women who have made significant impacts in history, such as activists and scientists. Women’s History Month reminds everyone of the progress made, while also highlighting that work still needs to be done to achieve full equality.
When asked what Women’s History month means to her, junior Grace Lee shares her feelings.
“To me Women’s History Month is about celebrating all women and their success. Women are important figures in the world who have made major impacts in society, and without them, the world would not be the same,” Lee said.
Women’s History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the contributions made by women in the past. Celebrating women’s achievements is crucial for both honoring the past, and building the future.
Junior Casey Ashkenase shares why she thinks it’s important to recognize and celebrate women’s achievements.
“By recognizing and celebrating them, we not only give credit where it’s due but also inspire future generations of women to believe in their potential,” Ashkenase said.
NVD’s Girl Up Club is hosting fundraisers throughout the month to support women’s movements and promote gender equality. Club advisor Jennifer Glick shares insight into the initiatives Girl Up is leading this month.
“Girl Up is collecting pads, tampons and other menstrual items and sending them to women impacted by the wildfires in California. These are expensive necessities that women need every month, and with the devastation in California it’s one less thing they have to worry about buying,” Glick said.
Another initiative that Girl Up is leading this month is the Big Sister Program.
Glick details what the “Big Sister Program” is.
“Cassie Vega and Ava Pavlos are spearheading a Big Sister program with Haworth School where HS girls will get paired with 8th grade girls and help prepare them for the HS experience,” Glick said.
There are many ways NVD students can get involved and do their part in supporting Women’s History Month.
Glick details what students can do to get involved.
“First, they can pick up menstrual items and drop them off at C202 by the end of the month! Next, they can donate clothing and supplies to women’s shelters and programs. They can research women in a field of their interest or read a book on an inspiring woman or with strong female characters. Most importantly, they should thank a woman in their life for all they do. Most of our society runs on the unpaid labor of women, so thank those that have done so much for you without asking anything in return,” Glick said.
