Women's History Month
March marks Women's History Month, a time to honor and celebrate the remarkable contributions women have made throughout history.
Originating from a grassroots effort in 1978, this month-long celebration has grown into a national tradition, recognizing the resilience, achievements, and enduring impact of women across generations.
The story began in Santa Rosa, California, where the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women launched “Women’s History Week” to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8. This local initiative, led by Molly Murphy McGregor and her team, soon inspired a nationwide movement. In 1980, the National Women’s History Project lobbied successfully for federal recognition, prompting President Jimmy Carter to proclaim the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. By 1987, Congress officially declared March as Women’s History Month, ensuring an annual opportunity to reflect on the invaluable contributions of women in shaping society.
The theme for Women’s History Month 2025, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” highlights women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. From teachers shaping young minds to mentors guiding future leaders, this theme encourages us to celebrate the women who have empowered generations to dream bigger, aim higher, and achieve more.
Ways to Celebrate Women’s History Month
Honor the Influential Women in Your Life
Take a moment to recognize the women who have impacted your life. Write heartfelt thank-you notes or share tokens of appreciation, like flowers or a sweet treat, to express gratitude. Organize a gathering with your close female friends to celebrate your unique journeys and shared achievements. Whether it’s a girls’ night or a family gathering, these moments help strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
Support Women-Owned Businesses
Did you know women in the U.S. were not allowed to fully own businesses until 1988? Show your support for women entrepreneurs by shopping at women-owned businesses. Whether you’re exploring local shops or browsing online stores, you’ll be contributing to the success of women-led ventures. In Auburn, you can visit The Flower Bed or Behind the Glass, two notable women-owned businesses.
Celebrate Women in Entertainment
Challenge yourself to dive into films that highlight the stories and achievements of inspiring women. Watch movies directed by women or featuring strong female stories. Some of my favorites are Emma (2020), Hidden Figures (2016), Little Women (2019), Wicked (2024), Barbie (2023), and Lady Bird (2017). Fun fact: it wasn’t until 2010 that a female director won “Best Director” at the Oscars.
Another way to honor women in media is through music. Support female artists big or small, like Gigi Perez, Lola Young, Renee Rapp, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Sabrina Carpenter. When we listen to women, we give them a voice and space to continue telling their stories!
Participate in Community Events
Here at Auburn, I know we love our basketball and football, but take time this month to show up for our female athletes! We have excellent women’s gymnastics, basketball, and softball teams. Give them the energy they deserve!
The Gouge Performing Arts Center is also a great place to support female artists. In March, you can support Anoushka Shankar as she tours with her band or go enjoy the female-led production of Mamma Mia! Students can purchase discounted tickets!
Highlight Women in Education and Mentorship
In the spirit of this year’s theme, take time to honor educators, mentors, and leaders who have made a difference in your life. Share their stories on social media or write about how they’ve inspired you.
Women’s History Month is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action to continue uplifting and empowering women everywhere. By reflecting on the past and embracing the theme of “Moving Forward Together,” we can ensure a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come. Let’s celebrate the educators, mentors, and leaders who inspire us and keep pushing boundaries for a better tomorrow!
Be Well, Auburn.
Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Mykah’s decision to attend Auburn came as a surprise to her Alabama-loving family. Despite the initial shock, they’ve mostly come around—though she suspects her dad will never put his Auburn Dad bumper sticker to use. Mykah is now a Senior majoring in Human Development and Family Science, fully embracing the community and opportunities Auburn has provided for her.
Outside of her studies, she loves to stay involved on campus whether it’s Greek life or service organizations on campus. Mykah is passionate about music and you can often find her spinning her vinyl records or jamming to Taylor Swift. Exploring Auburn is another favorite pastime, as she’s always on the hunt for hidden gems around town, whether it’s a new lunch spot or a scenic trail. Her love for trying new things also extends to the kitchen, where she enjoys experimenting with different recipes. And when it’s time to relax, she never misses an episode of Dancing With the Stars.
Looking ahead, Mykah plans to continue her education after graduation by pursuing a graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling. She hopes to make a positive impact on people’s lives, carrying forward her passion for understanding and helping others.
