by Payton Zohfeld ’23

Most of us know that March is Women’s History Month, but few know the hardwork and dedication that was put into making it a reality. When Congress approved Pub L 97-98, authorizing and requesting the President to proclaim the week commencing March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week”, the concept for Women’s History Month was born.

Then, after the National Women’s History Project petitioned Congress, Pub.L 100-9 designated March 1987 as “Women’s History Month”. Further resolutions urged various Presidents to declare March of each year as “Women’s History Month” , which was later approved by Congress between 1988 and 1994.

Presidents have declared March to be “Women’s History Month” in a series of proclamations dating back to 1995. These proclamations honor the contributions women have made to America and highlight the unique accomplishments they have made throughout the Country’s history. Some of the most historic developments  for Women in the United States include: 

• May 29, 1851: Sojourner Truth delivers her “Ain’t I a Women” speech 
• 1869: Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Staton  found the National Woman’s Suffrage Association 
• August 18, 1920: Women win the right to vote 
• June 10, 1963: The equal pay Act passed 
• June 18,1983: Sally Ride becomes the first American Woman in space 

Women over the years have overcome tough obstacles and shown how independent, smart, resilient and compassionate they can be. No doubt, most of us have someone in our lives that has been there for us in ways we couldn’t imagine, whether it’s your Mom, Grandma or any other woman, let them know how much they mean to you during this month.