Each March, we observe Women’s History Month to recognize and celebrate the contributions, achievements, and impact of women throughout history. It’s a time to highlight the often-overlooked roles women have played in shaping society, from politics and science to the arts and activism.

Why It’s Important

Honoring Contributions: Women have made significant strides in all fields, but their achievements have often been underrepresented in history books.

Inspiring Future Generations: Recognizing female pioneers encourages young girls and women to pursue their dreams and break barriers.

Promoting Gender Equality: It serves as a reminder of the progress made toward gender equality and the work that still needs to be done.

Preserving History: Many women’s stories have been lost or overshadowed. This month helps ensure they are acknowledged and remembered.

Origins of Women’s History Month

• It started as Women’s History Week in 1980, initiated by President Jimmy Carter.
• In 1987, Congress officially expanded it to a month-long celebration in March.
• March was chosen to align with International Women’s Day (March 8).

Each year, Women’s History Month has a different theme, spotlighting specific topics related to women’s contributions. The theme for Women’s History Month 2025 is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” 

This theme celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership, shaping the minds and futures of all generations. 

Key Objectives of the 2025 Theme

To Honor: Recognize the achievements and contributions of women educators, mentors, and leaders.

To Inspire: Motivate all generations to pursue education and leadership roles, and to work for equality and diversity.

To Educate: Raise awareness about the importance of women’s roles in influence and leadership.

To Unite: Bring together communities to celebrate and support women’s history and achievements, building awareness of the common issues and strengths that all women share. 

This theme underscores the pivotal role women have played in nurturing minds and inspiring transformative action across various spheres, from classrooms to global initiatives. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and celebrating these contributions, especially at a time when inclusive and equitable education is more critical than ever.

By focusing on education and mentorship, the 2025 Women’s History Month theme aims to inspire future generations to continue the legacy of impactful leadership and community building.

Further Reading

In addition to creating a Women’s History Month book display in the library, here is a curated collection from hoopla as well as one from Libby, so you can explore literature, films, and music highlighting women inventors, activists, and trailblazers who have shaped history and continue to inspire change.