March is Women's History Month

March is one of my favorite months of the year. Blame it on my Irish roots. It typically signifies a turning point to spring. I love the color green. And like Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day is just another way for us to infuse a little joy into our lives. But the best part of all? It’s Women’s History Month.

If you’ve read any of my stuff before, you know that I’m a staunch feminist. I am constantly amazed by women’s accomplishments (past and present) in the face of such rampant misogyny.

In my own life, I combatted the shame flung at me for being a woman by doubling down on my pride in being a part of such a phenomenal group.

’Cause I’m a woman. Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me. — Maya Angelou

Everyday, you see women constantly championing each other, overcoming obstacles, and forming deep and meaningful bonds. There is just something magical about being a woman.

We understand each other in ways that go beyond words. We support each other (even those we dislike) against sexism. Our shared struggles have unified us.

In my opinion, these (highly unfortunate) trials have bonded us, giving us a magical sisterhood — something men just don’t understand.

For so much of history, being a woman was a shameful thing. Perhaps not always openly, but if you were not white, straight, married young, a mother, etc, then you were failing in the eyes of society.

And even if you were all/any of those things, it still wasn’t enough. Women were restricted, placed in bubble wrap (if you were lucky) and given clear limitations on how your value was defined.

Perhaps that’s what I — along with so many other women — am passionate about feminism, women’s history, and most of all, not moving backwards (see my article on Medium on abortion).

“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made… It shouldn’t be that women are the exception.” — Ruth Bader Ginsburg

That’s why iconic figures from our past: Ada Lovelace, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Katherine Johnson, Jane Austen, Coretta Scott King, Sonia, Sotomayor, etc. (the list goes on and on) are so important.

“Though the sex to which I belong is considered weak, you will nevertheless find me a rock that bends to no wind” — Queen Elizabeth I

They pushed the boundaries. They stepped out of line, questioning social limits, and opening new worlds to women.

“Men fight wars. Women win them.” — Queen Elizabeth I

We know many famous female historical figures: Queen Elizabeth I, Jane Austen, Abigail Addams, etc.

We learn about them in school because they were anomalies.

Now at this point, I feel it’s important to offer 2 disclaimers:

1. These women were anomalies in the fact they were privileged enough to have the education and opportunity to leave their impact on the world in times when these doors were largely closed to women.
2. Unfortunately, many queer, trans, and women of color were written out of history. Their accomplishments were swept under the rug. This is why many of us only know the work of Katherine Johnson thanks to Hidden Figures or Marsha P Johnson thanks to social media.

Those are 2 important things to note when considering women’s history and prominent figures.

But these are just a handful of the women who changed the world for us. Women who laid the groundwork so that you and I could have more opportunities, more freedom, and a better chance at success.

It’s also worth noting that there are many more female figures that changed history; these are just a few.

In fact, if you’re truly interested in women’s history, I encourage you to look into the lesser known characters: Queen Boudicca, the Trung sisters, Wilma Rudolph, etc.

Self education is pertinent when it comes to learning accurate history and honoring our ancestors.

Many of these women have been overlooked, ignored, or vilified by history (like the 6 wives of Henry VIII).

So, this month, I challenge you. I challenge you to learn more about women. About our history. About all our history — LGBTQ+, women of color, etc. I challenge you to see the women in your life and appreciate them. To fight for them. To stand up with and for them.

If you’re a woman, I challenge you to appreciate yourself. To thank our predecessors for their hardworking and sacrifice. To acknowledge the work you are doing. Learn about your history. Love your friends. Try to actively acknowledge and appreciate all you can about being a woman.

And most of all, bask in the magic womanhood. It’s our month. It’s our history.

Happy Women’s History Month💗