The month of March has been designated as Women’s History Month since 1987 in the U.S., United Kingdom and Australia.
One of the main goals of dedicating a month each year to celebrating women’s history is to reflect on all the important and significant contributions women have made to our country (and world) throughout history.
How did Women’s History Month come to be?
In 1978, a school district in Sonoma, California sparked the idea for Women’s History Month when they decided to organize a week-long celebration of women’s accomplishments throughout history and cultures. They hosted a student essay contest on the topic “Real Women,” as well as a parade.
As the news of this celebration spread, Congress passed a resolution to make 1 week in March “Women’s History Week,” beginning in 1982. In 1987, a new petition was put out by the National Women’s History Project to designate the entire month of March as Women’s History Month.
Since then, each standing president has issued yearly proclamations declaring that March be Women’s History Month.
This year, the tradition continued on despite a global pandemic.
Each year, there is a theme that puts a certain focus on the month. The 2021 theme will actually be the same as 2020: Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be silenced. This theme is especially important because it celebrates the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage.
International Women’s Day
Before Women’s History Month, there was International Women’s Day. This day has been celebrated on March 8th every year since 1911. Countries around the world participate in various celebrations in schools and with parades or other demonstrations.
Learn how these 5 influential women contributed to the cause of women’s reproductive health and rights throughout history.
Women’s health is important too!
In order to continue contributing to our country and world, women of all ages have to take care of their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Regular well-woman exams are an important step to maintaining your overall health and prevent any potential health issues before they get too serious.
Make sure you protect your health as a strong woman by scheduling your yearly well-woman exam at All About Women. Contact our Gainesville or Lake City office today to schedule your appointment with one of our experienced women’s care doctors.
