March is Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history. From pioneering advancements in science and politics to groundbreaking work in civil rights and the arts, women have played an essential role in shaping the world we live in today. This month serves as a reminder to honor the resilience, achievements, and leadership of women past and present.
The History Behind Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month originated from a weeklong celebration in Sonoma, California, in 1978. The movement quickly gained national attention, leading President Jimmy Carter to declare the week of March 8, 1980, as National Women’s History Week. Just seven years later, Congress expanded the celebration to the entire month of March, ensuring a continued recognition of women’s contributions to history, culture, and society.
International Women’s Day, which falls on March 8, is a global observance that highlights the economic, political, and social achievements of women. The United Nations has sponsored this day since 1975, recognizing that true equality and progress require the active participation of women in all aspects of society.
Women Educating and Inspiring Generations – 2025 Theme
Each year, the National Women’s History Alliance designates a theme for Women’s History Month. The 2025 theme, “Women Educating and Inspiring Generations,” honors the educators, mentors, and leaders who have shaped the minds of future generations. This theme celebrates the women who have broken barriers in education, championed lifelong learning, and uplifted others through knowledge and mentorship.
Honoring Maryland’s Trailblazing Women
Maryland has been home to many remarkable women who have made history in various fields. This Women’s History Month, we highlight a few influential Maryland women whose contributions continue to inspire:
Nancy Grace Roman (1925-2018) – Known as the “Mother of Hubble,” Nancy Grace Roman was the first woman to hold an executive position at NASA. Her work paved the way for the Hubble Space Telescope, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe. Roman’s leadership in the field of astronomy helped open doors for women in STEM.
Irene Morgan Kirkaldy (1917-2007) – A civil rights pioneer, Irene Morgan Kirkaldy’s refusal to give up her bus seat in 1944 led to a Supreme Court ruling that segregation on interstate buses was unconstitutional. Her courageous act predated Rosa Parks’ famous protest and played a crucial role in the civil rights movement.
Virginia Hall (1906-1982) – A Baltimore-born spy, Virginia Hall was one of the most effective Allied intelligence officers during World War II. Despite losing a leg in an accident, she operated behind enemy lines, assisting the French Resistance and providing critical intelligence that helped the war effort.
Barbara Mikulski (1936-Present) – The longest-serving female senator in U.S. history at the time of her retirement, Barbara Mikulski dedicated her career to advocating for women’s rights, equal pay, and healthcare access. Her leadership paved the way for future women in politics.
Billie Holiday (1915-1959) – An iconic jazz musician, Billie Holiday, raised in Baltimore, used her voice to challenge racial injustice. Her haunting rendition of “Strange Fruit” became a powerful protest against lynching and racial violence, cementing her legacy as both an artist and an activist.
Oprah Winfrey (1954-Present) – Before becoming the “Queen of All Media,” Oprah Winfrey spent eight years as a co-anchor at WJZ-TV in Baltimore. She has credited her
years in Maryland as a crucial steppingstone in her rise to success. Best known for her influential talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, which ran for 25 years, Oprah became the richest African American of the 20th century and was once the world's only Black billionaire. By 2007, she was widely regarded as the most influential woman in the world.
A Quote to Reflect On
As President Jimmy Carter stated in 1980:
“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.”
Continuing Legacy
Women’s History Month is an opportunity to learn from the past and inspire future generations. Whether through education, advocacy, or innovation, women continue to shape our world in profound ways. This month let’s celebrate their achievements and reaffirm our commitment to gender equality and empowerment.
At Williams, McClernan, and Stack, we are proud to honor the contributions of women in history and within our own community. We encourage everyone to take time this month to recognize the women who have made a difference in their lives and to support the ongoing fight for equality and justice.
How will you celebrate Women’s History Month?