“We must not, in trying to think about how we can make a big difference, ignore the small daily differences we can make which, over time, add up to big differences that we often cannot foresee.” — Marian Wright Edelman
Since the 1980’s, March is a time designated to honor and celebrate the achievements and contributions American women have made throughout the history of the United States.
The unwavering commitment of generations of women has proved invaluable to society, not only for them, but for many underrepresented and marginalized groups in America.
This year’s theme, “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business”, by the National Women’s History Project, honors women who are successfully challenging the status quo and championing change for women in the workplace. 1
“Today, women make up nearly half of our workforce, and many women are the primary breadwinners for their families. In fact, more than 75 percent of single mothers are the sole provider for their family.”2
This March, all around the nation – schools, groups, businesses, and organizations will study, celebrate and honor local and national, past and current, extraordinary women who are changing the world of work. From inequality in pay, poor working conditions, barriers to higher-level positions, March is the month to highlight issues that are important to the future of women in work and the women making strides to affect positive change.
What can you do as an individual, as a leader, as a champion? Here are some ways to celebrate:
- Social Media: Change your profile picture on Facebook, follow and share stories on Twitter, post pictures on Instagram.
- Attend a Local Event: check out local newspapers and organizations to attend events in your area.
- Share: Get your team involved by asking them to share a success story of women that have inspired or made an impact in their life. Contribute an article to your business newsletter or ERG. Talk with your family about women in history.
- Learn: Read a book or article on women’s contributions in history and discover a new hero. From athletes to scientists, government to philosophy, learn how our world has changed over the years – how far we have come and how far we still have to go.
- Volunteer: Speak at a local “Women’s History Month” engagement or volunteer at a local non-profit.
Although women have been pioneers of change for years, we need strong, successful women to continue to lead the charge and pave the way for future generations.
Take Women’s History Month as an opportunity to highlight and commend women who have made an impact in our history and encourage future women leaders for tomorrow.
Pamela Taylor, Business Development with Manpower and Tampa Bay Diversity Council Communications Co-Chair
1 http://www.nwhp.org/womens-history-month/2017-honoree-nominations/
2 https://www.dol.gov/wb/overview_14.htm
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