What Is Women’s History Month 2024?
Women’s History Month is an event honoring the contributions of women across history. Designated by Presidential Proclamation, this month-long event ties in with International Women’s Day to recognize the importance of women and celebrate the unsung stories of revolutionary women throughout history. As President Carter wrote in his inaugural Proclamation, history has often been told by men, meaning that women's stories have been under-represented. Women’s History Month seeks to redress that balance and celebrate the impact of women. During this month, events and celebrations take place, and speeches commemorate the effect women have had and continue to have on the world. The theme of this year’s Women’s History Month is “Women Who Have Influenced Equity, Diversity and Inclusion”.
We asked some LWV Solano members to tell us about a woman who has inspired them. Here are some of the responses…
Ida Wells-Barnett—a true inspiration. She was a journalist and a political and community activist who led the anti-lynching crusade and was a founder of the NAACP. Her motivation to stand up and speak out for equality and inclusion when custom runs contrary to law is the torch I endeavor to carry on. Her quote, “the way to right the wrong is to turn the light of truth upon it,” continues to encourage and inspire me. Alice Fried
As a young mother in 1983, I was excited to follow Sally Ride as she became the first American woman and the third woman to fly in space. My hope was that my daughter and future granddaughters would not be discouraged from taking physics as I was! Leslie Lessenger
When I was in college in the mid-60’s, I read The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan. She put into words what I had been feeling about my role as a woman. She was the person who inspired me to become involved in the Women’s Movement, including speaking to local groups about the Equal Rights Amendment. I continue to support issues which advocate for women’s inclusion, diversity, and equity. Barbara King
I have always found the words of Dr. Maya Angelou to be deeply meaningful and inspirational. Her life journey is a testament to her strength and fortitude in learning how to overcome obstacles. Her journey started with a tragedy in her early life: a sexual assault that left her mute for five years. Once she reclaimed her voice she did not choose to merely survive; she consciously chose to thrive and to lift her voice for others. She said, “ Each time a woman stands up for herself she stands up for all women.” I realized how important it is to speak up even when others try to drown out your voice because silence can be deafening. She led a life that reflected her core values believing,” In diversity there is beauty and there is strength.” I share those beliefs and am committed to making my journey reflect those ideals. Rami Muth
Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of The Special Olympics was a pioneer in the worldwide struggle for rights and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities. As a young woman, I had the pleasure of volunteering at one of the first Special Olympics. This was the beginning of a twenty-year career as a special educator. The Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, a pioneer in the struggle for rights and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities. During my career, I saw the profound change in the acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities in our schools, workplaces, and communities. Eunice Kennedy Shriver was pivotal in leading this change. She is the recipient of The Presidential Medal of Freedom for her advocacy of inclusion for people with disabilities. Janice Adams
