In March of 1913, an estimated 5,000 women marched for the women’s right to vote during the Women’s Suffrage March on Washington. It was a moment that would impact the lives of future generations of American women and it is achievements like this that are celebrated every March as a part of Women’s History Month.

The History of Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month began in 1978 when the school district of Sonoma, California organized a week-long celebration of women that coincided with International Women’s Day (March 8^th). Within a few years it spread across the country and in 1980, President Carter declared the week of March 8^th: National Women’s History Week. Seven years later the National Women’s History Project (NWHP) successfully petitioned Congress to expand the week to a full month.

Every year the NWHP comes up with a theme to spread awareness and knowledge on women’s issues. This year’s theme is “Weaving the Stories of Women’s Lives.” Nine women will also be honored by the NWHP for being extraordinary visionaries and role models. Some of the women include like Delilah Beasley (Newspaper Columnist), Holly Near (social activist), and Vicki L. Ruiz (pioneer in Latina History).

Interested in learning more about women in our nation’s history? There are many museums or exhibits that you should consider visiting like the National Women’s History Museum in Virginia.

Celebrate Women’s History Month With These Tips

This year let Women’s History Month inspire you to celebrate all women, past and present. As you reflect on how much has changed for women in the past 100 years, take steps to unite with the women in your life and spread knowledge. Listed below are just a few Mindful ideas.

1. Care sessions. Host care sessions with your lady friends. Gather at someone’s house, supply snacks, and spend some time talking about yourselves (not the kids, your partner, etc.). Use this time to encourage one another.
2. Educate your kids. Get your kids (both boys and girls) in on the celebration of women’s history. You can teach them about American heroes like Rosalyn Yalow and Mae Jemison or share stories about the strong women in your family.
3. Volunteer. Take the time to volunteer with a non-profit that helps girls or women in your community. Consider a local chapter of the National Organization for Women or the Girl Scouts.