March is Women’s History Month
This year, the month of March serves as Women’s History Month in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Our country aims to recognize contributions made by women in our society throughout the history of our nation. International Women’s Day also takes place during the month of March. It is recognized by many countries around the world and serves as a leading recognition regarding women’s rights around the world.
Women’s History Month has evolved from the very first International Women’s Day that took place in 1911, and later from the Women’s History Week conference that took place in 1979. The event was such a success that many other areas decided to have their own weeks honoring women, so much so that President Jimmy Carter made a statement deeming a week during March to be the official Women’s History Week. Due to the popularity that grew over time for the celebration of the week, the month-long recognition was proposed by many states and was passed by Congress in March of 1987. Congress would later pass additional requests that the President has the authorization to state that March is “Women’s History Month” for every year to come.
Throughout history, women’s contributions to our society, economy, and nation have been significant. This month recognizes these contributions, triumphs, and strides that women have made to achieve equality and the recognition they deserve. This year there are many different events and honors that are participating in Women’s History Month. The Nation Archive News has released their new exhibit opening for 2019, as the “Rightfully Hers: American Women and the Vote,” in honor of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment. It explores the significant milestone and landmark decision for women, as well as the endeavors women faced in order to achieve the right to vote. The National Women’s History Alliance selects a theme and chooses women to honor each year at the end of March. This year’s theme is, “Visionary Women: Champions of Peace and Nonviolence,” which recognizes women who created change in their communities and societies when they handled injustices through non-violent means. The women being honored include six living honorees and five deceased honorees labeled as “Champions of Peace and Nonviolence”, each with their own significant successes and diverse backgrounds.
For more information that pertains to the celebration please visit Women’s History Month. To explore the archives about Women’s History in the United States that include photographs, articles, and film browse, National Archive News. To learn more about the past honorees of the National Women’s History Alliance and their contributions, visit The National Women’s History Alliance.
If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. As always, my offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603).
– State Representative Todd Hunter, District 32
Rep. Hunter represents Nueces (Part) County. He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.
