March is recognized as Women’s History Month. A month to honor the innumerable women who have bravely and tirelessly campaigned for equality, justice, and opportunity in our country during Women’s History Month. We also start over with our dedication to expanding opportunities and rights for women and girls in the U.S and around the world. 

 In 1987, after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” This movement started in Santa Rosa, California, where educators first celebrated Women’s History Week in March 1978 to increase awareness of women’s contributions to society. Women’s History Month is a time set aside to consider the frequently under-appreciated contributions of women to American history.  

 “Not only do I think it’s important to recognize history in itself, but I think it’s also important to acknowledge the women that played a role in the history,” English Teacher, Sarah Lowe, said. “I definitely appreciate the recognition for women in history.” 

 Along with Ms. Lowe, Floral Design Teacher, Sheila Merriman-Parr believes Women’s History Month is important for the appreciation of women. 

 “I think Women’s History Month is fantastic, especially as a woman in a male dominated field,” Mrs. Parr, said. “I think it’s fantastic to recognize women who have made achievements and actually advanced to different areas of our country.”  

 On the other hand, some aren’t so fond of Women’s History Month. 

 “I feel that we don’t necessarily need a Women’s History Month because women’s history is our history, it’s all of our history,” Forensic Science Teacher, Mrs. Fuentes said. “I don’t particularly agree with singling out a group to get recognized, to me it perpetuates this division more than anything else, I feel that we’re being divisive instead of inclusive.” 

 Women have had fewer legal rights and career prospects than men for most of the history. Motherhood and marriage were seen as women’s most important duties. However, women gained the right to vote and more educational and employment options in many countries during the 20th century. Thanks to Women’s History Month, young girls across the nation now have the courage, self-confidence, and resolve to carry on the legacy of our foremothers. Inspiring present and future generations to follow in the footsteps of the women who laid the groundwork for our success, fair treatment, and societal acceptance shall be our history.