The First Picket Line - College Day in the Picket Line. 1917. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Collection, Washington, D.C., USA.
The purpose of the month is to highlight and celebrate the monumental accomplishments of women in every sector of society. Perseverance in the face of sexism and patriarchy speaks to the incredible innate strength, intelligence, and innovative nature of 50% of the population.
"Women's History Month had its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed Pub. L. 97-28 which authorized and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week.” Throughout the next five years, Congress continued to pass joint resolutions designating a week in March as “Women’s History Week.” In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” Between 1988 and 1994, Congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the President to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, presidents have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.” These proclamations celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and recognize the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields" (Womenshistorymonth.gov/about).
Let us recognize, however, that all of these statements have been made by men. A stark reminder that the United States is still a country where only men have held the ultimate power. And this is certainly not due to women's lack of capabilities, as this guide will show. Instead it is a testament to the continued power of the patriarchy within our society. The fight is not over.