This month marks the annual Women’s History Month, a month long celebration that began in 1987 in the United States of America. Despite discrimination, hardships, and exclusion, women throughout history have strived for equality. Women’s History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions and legacies of women to history, society and culture.
The month is about amplifying women’s voices, not only in the past, but the present and also creating a safe space for the future. Although the month originated in the United States it is also celebrated, alongside International Women’s Day, in the United Kingdom and Australia. Generations of women have pushed boundaries, broken patriarchal ideals and shaped our progress. In this month it is important to celebrate those less-well known women and understand their role in shaping the world we live in today.
“Representation is important. I think it fills an internal yearning that validates you and almost gives you permission to take your place in the professional world. It says that you can, it says that you should, it says glass and concrete ceilings can be broken.” – Paula Cummins, Kingston University London
Every year the National Women's History Alliance designates a theme for Women's History Month. This year the theme is "Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories”. This theme recognises "women, past and present, who have been active in all forms of media and storytelling including print, radio, TV, stage, screen, blogs, podcasts, news, and social media”.
Women’s History Month is all about bringing women’s stories to the surface, it is about changing the common narrative and celebrating and acknowledging the overlooked women who have played a major role in shaping modern society and culture. Alongside this, this month is also about recognising and celebrating how far women have come in terms of equality. By no means have we achieved full gender equality in society, however looking at and celebrating past accomplishments can help to shape future changes.