Guest Blog by Dr. Mallary Tytel
“The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers.” — Juliette Gordon Low
March is National Women’s History Month, a time to shine a light on the large and small accomplishments of ordinary and extraordinary women. This matters because women have always contributed to our lives when faced with both challenges and opportunities. It is hard for women to not get caught up in the daily grind, juggling multiple tasks and priorities. Still, from domestic chores and carrying babies to managing careers, fighting wars and governing countries, women are incredibly amazing.
Women’s History Month began in 1978 as a week-long, local celebration in Santa Rosa, California. The movement spread across the country as other communities began their own Women’s History Week celebrations and in 1980, a consortium of women’s groups and historians successfully lobbied for national recognition. In February 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the Week of March 8th as National Women’s History Week. And in 1987, a Congressional Joint Resolution formally recognized March as National Women’s History Month going forward.
Women’s history does not rewrite history, but it does add a new perspective. By expanding the narrative to include the activities and contributions of women from all walks of life, we also give all children – especially girls – an opportunity to see themselves as active participants in the life of the nation, able to make important contributions to the future. This also adds a wealth of role models for today’s women and girls. Their incredible stories are an inspiration for us all.
Organizations and communities across the country are recognizing and honoring women this month. Here are some simple ways you, too, can observe National Women’s History Month:
- Think of a woman in your life you personally know or even a public figure. Write her a letter describing the impact she has had on you. (Imagine getting one of these letters yourself!)
- Connect with one or more incredible women like yourself. Breakfast, lunch or coffee; it doesn’t matter. What does matter is spending time one-on-one with the women in your life and sharing your own stories.
- Learn more about Women’s History. Visit a museum, register for a lecture or online program, start a book club dedicated to reading about the achievements of women.
When you learn about women who have stood up for their rights and fought for what they believe, you honor them and yourself.
- Be sure to visit and support a local woman-owned business or service. This benefits not only women entrepreneurs, but the local economy and your entire community.
What #1SimpleThing can you can think of to do with your mom, sister, daughter, colleague or friend to celebrate and motivate each other?
Let’s face it: throughout time women have always been part of important events or discoveries and until we dig deeper into the past, we may not understand the important roles women have played. We all have the power to influence the world and National Women’s History Month reminds us of that. This Month and every month let’s give women the attention and recognition they are due.
About Dr. Tytel:
Mallary is president of Healthy Workplaces, a national consultancy focusing on systems-based women’s leadership, culture, diversity and equity, and taking charge of change. She is the former CEO of an international nonprofit; has served as a key advisor to senior military and civilian personnel in the US Department of Defense; is a certified executive coach and mediator; on faculty at Grand Canyon University; and the author of seven books. Her most recent book, Simple Purpose: How Women are Purposefully Changing the World honors the contributions of everyday, contemporary women.
Resources:
The National Women’s History Museum
https://www.womenshistory.org/womens-history
The National Women’s History Alliance
https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/
National Today
https://nationaltoday.com/national-womens-history-month/
Thank you Mallary for sharing!
Michelle Lohman, Associate Broker
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