For centuries women across the world have always been at the forefront for change. They have constantly spoken up when they felt that systems were oppressive towards them. They have marched for causes that not only affected them but even those that they had no shared experiences of. To be a woman in our century is difficult at times harder than it has ever been in the history of women. There are so many expectations and restrictions placed upon women, society has designed certain rules that are only applicable to women. Decisions are made on behalf of women without consulting them from the overturning of Roe v Wade to women being paid less than their male counterparts who are in the same positions as them. These are some of the struggles that women are faced with on a daily basis. In this Women’s History Month we salute and celebrate women who had the courage to stand up and change how women are viewed and treated.
This Women’s History Month we reflect on the achievements and contributions of amazing women who have changed the course of history. This March, we celebrate not only the trailblazers of the past but also the contemporary trailblazers who are actively advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). These women are making significant strides in breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a more inclusive world for all.
Trailblazers like Dr Susan La Flesche Picotte who became a doctor because she saw another woman lose her life because she was refused treatment because of her color had the courage and conviction to change things for the better for others like her. To Haunani-Kay Trask who was a fearless leader of the Hawaiian sovereignty movement, fighting for self-determination of the Hawaii people. Ruby Bridges who at a tender age of 6 was among the first African American children to desegregate Southern schools, and Malala Yousafzai who became an education activist for girls after she was shot for opposing restrictions on female education in her country.These are but a few of the women who stood up to make a difference in our society.
Their message echoing the previous generations’ message that for a positive future, we need to remove bias and discrimination from our lives and institutions. It takes courage for women to advocate for practical goals like equity, diversity and inclusion when established systems blatantly misinterpret, exploit or discredit them. Women’s History Month honors the past and reminds us that progress requires ongoing effort. Even seemingly small acts of mentorship, sponsorship, and support can make a profound difference in advancing women’s opportunities. Together, we can contribute to work towards a future where women’s contributions and rights are fully respected and celebrated. In accordance with this year’s theme of celebrating women “Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion” we highlight some of these fierce individuals that stood up and said enough is enough.