About Women’s History Month
March is Women’s History Month, the month to observe the contributions and achievements of women nationally. This month of observance is significant in reflecting on Women’s impact on history and modern society. Organizations throughout the United States and the world allocate this month to pay time and attention to recognizing women’s innovation and perseverance.  
The History of Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month originated in 1978 in California, where the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women organized a local “Women’s History Week” consisting of an essay competition and a parade. “Women’s History Week” impacted the country, resulting in other organizations celebrating “Women’s History Week” the following year. Jumping to 1980, the National Women’s History Project (now the National Women’s History Alliance) and many others advocated and lobbied for national recognition and observance of “Women’s History Week”. In February of 1980, U.S. President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the week of March 8, 1980, the first “National Women’s History Week”. In 1987, “Women’s History Month” was first declared by Congress and has been honored since.
Significance of Women’s History Month
Women have often faced inequality, specifically regarding access to fundamental resources and through the treatment of inferiority. However, we celebrate and honor Women’s History Month to grow as a society by learning and seeking to appreciate women’s perseverance and impact. Throughout history, women have been pivotal, from nurturing life to creating sentimental art and through inventions which increase the quality of life. Through familiarity, together we can learn about injustices that women experienced in the past and experience now to create a robust society that values women and creates an environment that supports women’s well-being and innovation.
Women’s History Month is rooted in spotlighting women’s contributions through their intelligence, motivation, and influence, serving aa a catalyst both historically and today.
National Women’s History Alliance Theme 2025
The National Women’s History Alliance marks “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations” as the theme for Women’s History Month 2025. The theme encourages everyone to reflect upon and celebrate influential women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. The theme is relevant to recognizing women’s collective strength and the inspiration that has impacted all generations. The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion invites you to reach out to a woman who has positively impacted your life and exemplified dedication to education, mentorship, and leadership!
Quotes:
“From classrooms to boardrooms, and from grassroots movements to global initiatives, women educators and leaders have played a pivotal role in nurturing minds and inspiring transformative action.”
“Our 2025 theme spotlights the contributions women have made to the American educational system, the free marketplace of ideas, and the very fabric of our democracy.”
- National Women’s History Alliance
How to Honor WHM:
Reflect and reach out to the women in your life who have been impactful!
Nominate a woman at Â鶹´«Ă˝ who has been inspiring and influential for the Influential Women Award.
Discover captivating literature by women.
Watch films that highlight women’s perspectives and/ or are directed by women.
Research and learn about the injustices, perseverance, and innovation of women.
OKC Community events
The Â鶹´«Ă˝ History Center presents the Second Annual Â鶹´«Ă˝ Women’s History Conference from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 1. (Free)
Goddess Awakening Presents: A Celebration of Women’s History from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. March 1 at the OKC Farmers Market. ($)
Femme Film Â鶹´«Ă˝ at 7 p.m. March 20 in the Te Ata Theater at OKC Contemporary Arts Center. (Free)
Local Artist Showcase: Women’s History Month Exhibit available from March 1-31 at the Philomathea Exhibit Hall Downtown OKC Library. (Free)
Â鶹´«Ă˝ events
Celebrating International Women’s Day Market 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, March 6, in the Student Lounge at the University Center.
Women’s History Month Panel & Â鶹´«Ă˝ Influential Women Ceremony Great Hall from noon to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 11, in the Great Hall at the University Center.
