March is Women’s History Month. It is a time to celebrate and honor women. To look further at the contributions and impact they have made on society. 

Yet Women’s History Month has not always been recognized. In 1978 the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission Status of Women planned to dedicate a week to celebrate women’s history. The week was meant to correspond with International Women’s Day. International Women’s Day is March 8th and has been celebrated since 1911. It is a day to recognize the achievement of women. The Women’s History Week was originally a local celebration but word traveled around and many other places decided to participate. Then in 1987 it got its first recognition as a national month through Congress. It has remained a national month ever since. 

Though women have had somewhat national recognition for decades, it is a surprise to many that Women’s History Month even exists. So if you didn’t know, now you do and you can help spread the word. Take time to acknowledge women’s accomplishments.

If you want to read more about Women’s History Month, look for Kylie Harmala’s article in Spectrum Issue 3!