Have you ever wondered why only one month out of the year is dedicated to women's history?
Women's history has been written out of most standard text books and is not central to the curriculum in K-12 schools. Because history is often and usually seen through a patriarchal lens, it undermines and minimizes women's contributions to and participation in it. According to History Uncovered interview with Dr Bettany Hughes women have always made up a majority of the population, but only account for ~0.5% of recorded history. Huges says, "There are brilliantly feisty women from history who have made an impact, and whose stories need to be told. For historians it’s our job to fill in the gaps in history. We need to actively look for women’s stories, and put them back into the historical narrative, there are so many women that should be household names but just aren’t."
Women's History Month is dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the accomplishments of trailblazing women, whose actions have contributed to the arc toward gender equality.
This year's theme for the month is "Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope" as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This theme is a tribute to the often tireless work of caregivers and front line workers, the majorly of whom are women. This year we are reminded of women's importance in these roles and their significance in promoting and sustaining hope for future generations.
Consider donating to WomenNC: Join with us by supporting our programming dedicated to advancing gender equality, and honor women's history all year round!