Women’s History Month is celebrated every year in March, and has been since the year 1987. The month is a celebration of the accomplishments of women in history, and the struggles and success that women have endured through time. While Women’s History Month is a great time to celebrate the accomplishments of women and the advance in women’s rights, the achievements should not be celebrated just this month – but throughout the year.
In fact, women and girls across the globe are fighting for their rights to this day – and while progress should be acknowledged, so should the fact that there is more work still to be done!
Throughout history and in the present day, women have struggled having to fight against relentless stereotypes and misogyny. While many acts were passed in the United States that have benefited women, such as the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and the 19th Amendment, the United States has yet to pass the Equal Rights Amendment (it’s not yet part of the Constitution), which would protect women against sexual discrimination by the law.
Additionally, with the court ruling of the overturning of Roe V. Wade in 2022, it is clear the crucial role that activism and movements have on civil liberties – without the activism of women, there would be no 19th Amendment, and without the activism of women now – more rights may be repealed. Although, it is important for all people to get involved in the fight for women’s rights – not just women.
Elena Moran, history teacher, stated, “Issues like reproductive rights, gender pay gaps, and violence against women continue to be challenged.”
Women and girls around the world are suffering at the hands of brutal misogyny. In the present, casual misogyny is even found on the internet.
Nikki Blau, a sophomore and someone who has grown up with access to social media said, “I would say that the male side of my age group reacts very inappropriately to women’s history … they are very ignorant towards it and they tend to make harmful jokes and don’t realize the severity of them. I’ve seen misogyny rise, especially in social media with teenage boys.”
Social media is an influential factor in the formation of people’s views, and it is important to be aware of the influences social media has on the young generation.
As well, Nikki added on and expressed how important and significant it is for people to learn about women’s history. She said, “I think it’s important for people to learn [about] the discrimination that women have faced and how long it’s been going on for.. And that it’s still a thing to this day. Also, that women have had many accomplishments throughout the years, but it’s not spoken about as much because men have taken credit for what they’ve done. They have never had the same opportunity as men have had, because for so long it’s been against the law for women to have jobs and positions in other workforces”.
Women have impacted the society that we live in since the beginning of time, and they should not be left unnoticed. Women’s achievements were made while simultaneously fighting against gender discrimination – discriminatory policies and attitudes – in order for girls and women today to have a better chance in life.
Ultimately, it is evident how Women’s History Month is more than people think… It is to acknowledge the people who have fought for future generations of women and girls, and while doing so, it has led to new dreams and opportunities.
