Women’s History Month takes place annually in March and is dedicated to celebrating the all-too-often undervalued contributions that women have made to history, culture and society, whilst raising awareness for gender equality. Though it is important to reflect on women’s history throughout the rest of the year, in March, numerous countries across the globe remember the struggles which women have overcome to help make the world a more inclusive place.
The History of Women’s History Month
Women's History Month was officially instated by US Congress in 1987 but the events which led to the decision go back much further. It’s well known that throughout history the vast majority of cultures have been governed by patriarchal systems which limit women’s freedom. The fight for gender equality was led by women to dismantle the barriers which
controlled women’s choices, paving the way so that equal rights for all genders could be a possibility for future generations.
Even after women achieved the right to vote in many Western countries in the early 20th century, women had still not attained equal rights. International Women’s Day (which is still celebrated annually on 8 th March) was created amongst early 20th century strikes regarding the oppression of women, but it was not officially recognised by the United Nations until 1975.
Women’s History Week was created in America in 1980 as a progression of International Women’s Day. The urge for national recognition and to extend Women's History Week meant that congress eventually passed a public law in 1987 designating March as Women's History Month. Throughout March, various events such as television presentations and public lectures are organised to celebrate women’s achievements all around the world, whilst also addressing the significant inequalities that remain.
Women’s History Month 2022
Each year, the National Women’s History Alliance devises a theme for Women’s History Month. This year the theme is ‘Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope’, to honour the tireless work of caregivers and frontline workers throughout the continuing pandemic and to acknowledge the multitude of ways that women of all cultures have indispensably delivered both healing and hope throughout history.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month has inspired a large number of events throughout the world which celebrate women’s achievements, varying from political demonstrations, business seminars and government initiatives to craft markets, television specials and theatrical performances.
Whether you’re interested in literature, science, the arts or sports, there are incredible women in every field who have had to overcome great struggles to find a place within that occupation. This month is the perfect time to consider the women that you admire and other inspirational women throughout history. Here are some ideas to help get you thinking about women’s history:
Learn through reading books or watching movies:
Women’s History Month is a brilliant time to discover more about the women of the past who stood up for what they believed in, fighting for the changes which have progressed society and directly impacted our lives. You could read a biography about a female inventor or activist, find a documentary which details the struggle for equal rights or watch a movie which celebrates strong women.
Share with others:
One of the most inspiring aspects of Women’s History Month is the unity and relationships which develop from working together for a shared cause, seen countless times throughout history within the movement for equal rights. Consider Women’s History Month as a springboard to share your thoughts and discussions with others.
At your university:
Women’s History Month is a huge cause for celebration at universities across the UK. Throughout the month, many universities will organise a programme of events to commemorate, educate and encourage their students to think widely about women’s experiences throughout history.
Whilst the movement for women’s rights has come on leaps and bounds over the last century, the unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid the same as their male colleagues, do not make up equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women’s education, health and violence against women are still unresolved problems. Women’s History Month shows us the importance of recognising the social, economic and cultural achievements of women throughout both history and society today and inspires people to come together and take action against the substantial inequalities that still remain.
