March Celebrates Women's History Month
Posted on Feb. 26, 2026 / Diversity, Equity and Inclusion / Subscribe 0
Historically, the story of women has often been one of silence and bias. This month provides a dedicated time to revise narratives that have largely ignored women's contributions and is a time to inspire future generations. Learning about trailblazers—from scientists like Elizabeth Blackwell to activists like Rosa Parks—helps girls build confidence in their own capacity to achieve greatness and discover role models who persevered despite discrimination. The month highlights ongoing challenges, such as the gender pay gap (women earned an average of 81 cents for every dollar men earned in 2024) and the need for reproductive rights and workplace safety.
In 2026, the observance focuses on how women are designing solutions for global challenges. The theme "Leading the Change" expands the definition of sustainability to include:
- Financial Sustainability: Women creating more equitable economic systems.
- Social Justice: Leaders building resilient, inclusive communities.
-
Education and Mentorship: Women ensuring knowledge and leadership skills are passed to the next wave of changemakers.
Origins and History:
- 1911: The first International Women's Day was established to recognize women's rights and contributions.
- 1978: The school district of Sonoma, California, initiated "Women's History Week" to coincide with International Women's Day (March 8).
- 1980: President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8th as National Women's History Week.
-
1987: After growing state-by-state support, Congress passed a resolution establishing March as National Women's History Month in perpetuity.
Why Women's History Month is Important:
- Rectifies Historical Omissions: It shines a light on women's roles, which have traditionally been excluded, ignored or overlooked in historical records.
- Honors Achievements: The month celebrates women’s contributions to science, politics, sports and arts, recognizing their role in building society.
- Inspires Future Generations: It provides role models, showcasing the strength, courage and leadership of women throughout history.
- Highlights Ongoing Gender Issues: It is a time to gain momentum behind addressing current, unresolved challenges, such as the gender wage gap, underrepresentation in leadership and discrimination.
-
Promotes Equality: By educating the public on the crucial role women have played, it fosters a better understanding of the need for continued gender equality.
International Women's Day: March 8 is an annual worldwide observance honoring women’s achievements, gender equality and the call to action for change.
Twin Cities Events Honoring Women’s History Month:
Art & Creativity:
- We Made This: Art Fair (March 7–8, 2026): Held at The Machine Shop in Northeast Minneapolis, featuring over 65 women and gender-expansive artists.
- MacPhail Center for Music: Performance Festival & Faculty Spotlight Concert featuring compositions by women.
History & Education:
- Minnesota History Center: Features exhibits including "Julia Child: A Recipe For Life," "The Stories We Keep" and “Votes for Women”.
- Sister Spokesman: Her Story: Focuses on African American women authors and storytelling in Minnesota.
Networking & Community:
- International Women's Day Celebration (Brooklyn Park): Features an evening of speakers, Q&A and community building.
-
WISE Twin Cities Power Play Panel: A March event highlighting senior-level women in the sports business.
These events offer opportunities to honor the history and creative power of women throughout the Twin Cities area.
For additional insights check out Diverse Dialogues on National PRSA’s website: Women’s History Month Diverse Dialogues from March 2024 and The Power of Womanhood: Skills, Mentorship & Career Mobility from March 2025.
0 Comments