Celebrating Women’s History Month: Meaningful Ways to Honor the Women in Your Life
Honoring Women’s History Month
“From the first settlers who came to our shores, from the first American Indian families who befriended them, men and women have worked together to build this Nation. Too often, the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But the achievements, leadership, courage, strength, and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well.” Statement by the President on National Women's History Week
As March approaches, we take time to reflect on the incredible achievements of women throughout history. What began as a week-long celebration in 1980, granted by President Jimmy Carter, expanded into a month-long observance when Congress passed Public Law 100-9 in 1987, officially designating March as Women’s History Month. This month is a time to recognize and celebrate the resilience, strength, and contributions of women in shaping our world.
The 2025 Theme: Moving Forward Together
Each year, Women’s History Month has a theme, chosen by the National Women's History Alliance to highlight a key aspect of women's contributions to society. This year’s theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations," emphasizes the power of mentorship, leadership, and collective progress. The key word in this theme is together—because when women support each other, real progress happens. Unfortunately, the media often pit successful women against each other, as seen with Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese in women’s basketball. But history shows that true success comes from collaboration, not competition. When women uplift and empower one another, they break barriers and create lasting change.
Women Who Changed History
Throughout history, women have paved the way for future generations through innovation, determination, and leadership. Lucille Ball became the first woman to own a major television studio, while Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize for her groundbreaking scientific discoveries. Sally Ride made history as the first American woman in space, and Rachel Balkovec shattered barriers in sports by becoming the first woman to manage an affiliated baseball team. These women, among countless others, have made an undeniable impact on history through their resilience and trailblazing accomplishments.
Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day
March 8th marks International Women’s Day—a global celebration of women's achievements and a call for gender equality. There are many ways to take part:
Join the #AccelerateAction Challenge – The official IWD organizers encourage participants to flex their biceps in a photo and post it with the hashtag #AccelerateAction, symbolizing strength and unity.
Volunteer at a Women’s Shelter- There are so many shelters around the world that offer support to women. March is the perfect time to volunteer. You could be involved in activities like serving warm food, creating care kits or even being there in support. If you don’t know of any local shelters check out this website to find one.
Attend a Women’s Webinar – Women Speak Up is hosting a webinar on March 16th from 4:30-6:00 PM EST, providing a space to learn, connect, and support women.
Offer Words of Encouragement – Sometimes, a simple message of appreciation or support can make all the difference in a woman’s day. Ask a woman to share a story she connects with. Ask her about a time she didn’t feel seen or heard.
Learn and Share Stories – Check out USA TODAY’s Women of the Year to discover inspiring women across the country or submit a personal tribute to NPR’s newsletter, sharing the story of a woman who has impacted your life.
Women’s History Month is more than just a celebration, it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can go when we move forward together.
Learn more by exploring our website and getting active with Women Speak Up.
#women’shistorymonth #womenspeakup #internationalwomensday #girltalk
