Women's History Month
Alyssa McGuigan '23 Features Editor
Tuesday, March 1st to Thursday, March 31st signifies Women's History Month. Originating from “Women's History Week” in 1981, this is a celebration of Women’s History and the many hardships that have been conquered and overcome through the years. Starting with the women’s suffrage movement, which fought for women's right to vote in the mid 19th century, this month is very important for the history of all women. Although the month is mainly celebrated in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, March 8th signifies International Women's Day, and that warrants a global celebration. This year's theme for International Women's day is BreakTheBias. This encourages women around the world to fight towards a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Additionally, the theme for Women's History month 2022 is, “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope” This theme is to give tribute to the work of caregivers and frontline workers in the midst of the pandemic. Past themes have included the 2021 “Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be silenced.” This was to recognize the many suffragists who fought for what we have today. Mrs.Stratton, teacher of Women’s Studies at Howard High says, “I feel like the most important thing we can do, within a public school, is to embrace the gamut of diversity that's around us. Included in our everyday interactions in a positive way. And that does a lot to extend the healing.” Women's History month has grown over the years into the full month that it deserves, although to do this many women had to fight for women's rights and stand up for what was right. Some of the most important figure of Women's History month are:
Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a women's activist, suffragist, author. She was one of the main organizers of the American Equal Rights Association. She was also elected president of the National Woman's suffrage Association. She is most famous for her works of, The Women's Bible, and The History of Women's Suffrage.
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Today you can celebrate Women's History month through supporting women owned businesses, educating yourself on women's history and listening to the many speakers that will be live throughout the month. You can find a number of Women’s History Month Bay Area events here:
You can join groups to expand your knowledge. You can join Howard High’s very own course, Women’s Studies, or our girl empowerment club. Mrs. Stratton says, “It doesn't just have to be a month. It can be year round and there are so many ways that you can plug into that. That’s what's important.” Take with you knowledge on women's history and expand your understanding . In the words of Susan B. Anthony, "I declare to you that woman must not depend upon the protection of man but must be taught to protect herself, and there I take my stand."