Washington, DC., 28 March 2025 ——
It is International Women’s History Month. Every March we celebrate women and honor their profound contributions and accomplishments across the globe. The month serves as a time to reflect on the historical and ongoing struggles women have faced and to celebrate the social, political, economic, and cultural impacts they continue to make today.
Origins of Women’s History Month
International Women’s History Month can trace its roots back to the early 20th century, with efforts to recognize and celebrate women’s roles in history slowly gaining traction. The initial movement began as National Women’s History Week in the United States in 1978 and was organized by the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women in California. The week was celebrated in March, chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the women’s suffrage movement in the US (the passage of the 19th Amendment on 8 March 1920), which granted women the right to vote.
The success of the week-long celebration eventually led to an expanded recognition of women’s contributions, and in 1987, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9, which declared the month of March as National Women’s History Month. This was part of a broader movement to acknowledge the struggles, triumphs, and significant impact that women have had throughout history. In 1988, the National Women’s History Project petitioned Congress to declare March as a permanent month-long celebration, and by 1995, it became a national observance.
Today, Women’s History Month is celebrated globally, with different countries adopting unique methods of acknowledging the women who have shaped their societies.
Global Significance
The importance of celebrating women’s achievements transcends borders. International Women’s History Month serves as an annual reminder to take a step back and reevaluate the systemic inequalities that women still face today. Around the world, women have fought for equal rights, opportunities, and representation. However, many continue to face barriers like gender-based violence, unequal pay, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and limited access to education and healthcare.
By highlighting the contributions of women throughout history, the month-long celebration encourages reflection on both the progress made and the work that still lies ahead. For example, in many countries, women are still fighting for their basic rights, including the right to vote, work, and live without fear of discrimination. Recognizing women’s history is crucial to inspiring future generations of women and girls to take leadership roles in all facets of society, and to combat outdated stereotypes and norms.
Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories
Each year, International Women’s History Month is celebrated with a specific theme, chosen by the National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) in the US. The theme for 2025 is “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories”. This theme emphasizes the role of women in literature, journalism, film, art, music, and media – fields that have historically been dominated by men. By focusing on the women who have paved the way in these sectors, the theme highlights how women have shared their unique perspectives, given voice to marginalized communities, and reshaped cultural narratives.
Prominent figures such as Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, Zora Neale Hurst, and Roxane Gay represent just a few of the many women whose works have expanded the boundaries of literature and storytelling. The theme also acknowledges the underrepresentation of women in storytelling positions, from screenwriters and producers to directors and editors, urging a push for greater inclusivity.
Women’s Contributions in All Areas of Society
From ancient history to modern-day activism, women have always had a profound impact on the world. Whether as leaders, innovators, or creators, women have been central to the development of civilization. Some of the most notable achievements include:
In Politics: Women like Suffragists Susan B. Anthony, Emmeline Pankhurst, and Sojourner Truth played crucial roles in securing the right to vote for women in the US and the UK. In more recent times, women such as Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand’s former Prime Minister), Angela Merkel (former Chancellor of Germany), and Kamala Harris (the first female Vice President of the US), have broken barriers in politics, leadership, and governance.
In Science and Technology: Women have also made groundbreaking contributions to science and technology. Figures like Marie Curie, who won two Nobel Prizes, and Ada Lovelace, often regarded as the first computer programmer, paved the way for future generations of women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
In Activism and Social Movements: Women like Rosa Parks and Malala Yousafzai have become symbols of resistance and social change, leading the fight for civil rights, equality, and education for all children. The #MeToo movement, which has gained traction over the past decade, is another significant example of women organizing for social change and the fight for gender equality.
The Importance of Women’s History Month, Today
While Women’s History Month is a time for reflection, it is also a call to action. The work that remains to achieve gender equity is far from finished, and International Women’s History Month reminds us to continue advocating for equality, breaking down barriers, and amplifying the voices of women worldwide.
It’s essential to recognize that the struggle for women’s rights is not only about celebrating past achievements but also about striving to build a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive. The month provides an opportunity to support initiatives that elevate women, such as women’s education programs, gender equality legislation, and women’s empowerment organizations.
International Women’s History Month is much more than a celebration – but an invitation to learn, reflect, and take action. It challenges us to understand the complexities of gender inequality and empowers us to continue advocating for a world where women are given equal opportunities to thrive. By recognizing the achievements of women in all spheres of life, we move closer to building a future of equality, where the stories of all women are told, honored, and celebrated.
With gratitude… Lara
#thinkingoutloud #larakajs #celebratewomen #womenshistorymonth #womensempowerment #genderequality #genderequity #humanrights
Photo credit: “Detroit MI 1913 RPPC Gratiot Ave Modern Women’s Suffrage Movement Parade Equal Rights for Women or Women’s Rights Movement Photographer Unknown Photo Tagged 34 Used but Unsent Azo Stamp Box 2” by UpNorth Memories – Don Harrison. Licensed under CC By NC ND 2.0#
Lara Kajs is the founder and executive director of The Genocide Report, a nonprofit NGO in Washington DC. She is the author of Assad’s Syria, and Stories from Yemen: A Diary from the Field. Ms. Kajs frequently speaks about atrocity crimes, forced displacement, and international human rights. Follow and connect with Lara Kajs on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn