Every year in the United States, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to reflect on and honor the often-overlooked contributions of women to United States history.
From Women’s History Week to Month
The Education Task Force of Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women planned and executed a “Women’s History Week” celebration in 1978. The organizers selected the week of March 8 to correspond with International Women’s Day. The movement spread across the country as other communities initiated their own Women’s History Week celebrations.
In 1980, an assortment of women’s groups and historians—led by the National Women’s History Project (now Alliance)—successfully lobbied for national recognition.
In February 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the Week of March 8th, 1980 as National Women’s History Week. Eventually Congress passed resolutions calling for an annual Women’s History Month for which the President issues an annual proclamation.
Women’s History Theme-2026
Women’s History on Watercress Words
On my blog, I have recognized women for their achievements and contributions that make our country and world a better place to live. Many of these women worked in disciplines previously dominated by men.
When I entered medicine, most physicians were male, so I can identify with them. Thanks to the women who had come before me as physicians, we women who came after have made medicine a more woman-friendly profession. However there is still room for improvement in compensation and leadership opportunities.
Women Physician Astronauts-Exploring Health in Space
In this post I highlight women physicians and their exceptional service in healthcare and space research. Highlighted are Dr. Margaret Rhea Seddon, the first female astronaut from NASA, Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, and Dr. Laurel Clark, who tragically lost her life during a space mission.
Keep reading
How Women Changed and are Changing Healthcare
The first woman graduate of a United States medical school was born in Bristol England in 1821. Elizabeth Blackwell came to this country as a child and originally had no interest in medicine. But when a dying friend told her, “I would have been spared suffering if a woman had been my doctor”, she found…
Keep reading
Dr Jane Goodall-Messenger of Hope-and Medal of Freedom Award
Dr. Jane Goodall received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Biden , recognizing her environmental activism. The Barbie Inspiring Women Series also features a collectible doll representing her legacy. Goodall advocates for mindful eating and local food production while promoting hope amid global challenges in her recent book, “The Book of Hope.”
Keep reading
Avenging Kayla Mueller’s shining spirit
At only 26 years old, Kayla had already traveled to India, Israel, Palestine and Syria on humanitarian endeavors and in Arizona worked at a women’s shelter and with AIDS patients
Keep reading
Our Auntie Rosa-Her Family Remembers Rosa McCauley Parks
“Our Auntie Rosa” by Sheila McCauley Keys reveals personal memories of Rosa Parks, showcasing her impact on family and society. The book highlights Parks’ dedication to civil rights, her nurturing role as a family member, and her legacy as a symbol of courage. Her life is celebrated both intimately and historically.
Keep readingSharing the HEART of Women’s History Month
I’d love for you to follow this blog. I share information and inspiration to help you transform challenges into opportunities for learning and growth.
Add your name to the subscribe box to be notified of new posts by email. Click the link to read the post and browse other content. It’s that simple. No spam.
I enjoy seeing who is new to Watercress Words. When you subscribe, I will visit your blog or website. Thanks and see you next time.
Dr Aletha
Featured Image
I took this post’s Featured Image in Washington, DC. The statue is the Vietnam Women’s Memorial.
watercress words by Dr Aletha 