Antelope Staff
March is Women’s History Month, dedicated to celebrating women’s contributions and achievements throughout history. International Women’s Day, a global holiday for focusing on the women’s rights movement, is March 8.
The National Women’s History Month Alliance led the movement for March to be declared as Women’s History Month. The title was officially declared by Congress in 1987. This year, the alliance announced the Women’s History Month theme as “Celebrating the Women Who Tell Our Stories.” The theme is dedicated to recognizing women storytellers in all forms of media, including print, radio, TV and blogs.
This month is not only about recognizing past accomplishments of strong women, but also honoring the inspiring women in our lives today. So as a woman storyteller myself, I’ve compiled a list of five ways to celebrate Women’s History Month.
1. Host a girls’ night: Celebrating Women’s History Month is the perfect reason for planning quality time with girlfriends. Whether it’s going out to dinner, playing board games, making a charcuterie board or watching a chick flick, nothing says girl power quite like a fun-filled girls’ night.
2. Watch a woman-directed movie: Some of Hollywood’s best films were directed by women filmmakers. Till, She Said and On the Basis of Sex are all movies directed by women and showcase some of the greatest triumphs and challenges of women throughout history.
3. Support women-owned businesses: Shopping at women-owned businesses is an ideal way to show women entrepreneurs some love. Some of the many women-owned businesses in Kearney include:
— Simply Blessed Boutique
— The Spa Esthetics and Massage
— Hello Beautiful Bridal and Formal Wear
— Innermost Designs and Divas at Kearney Floral Co.
On a national level, some well-known businesses that were founded by women are Canva, 23andMe, Bumble and Spanx.
4. Donate to a non-profit that helps women: Women still deal with countless obstacles every day. Consider donating to or serving at a non-profit organization focused on helping women. There are organizations that help those escaping domestic violence situations or dealing with educational barriers. Local and national charities include the Kearney S.A.F.E. Center, Girls on the Run and the Malala Fund.
5. Write a note to an inspiring woman: Just a few words of gratitude can mean so much, and this month is the best time to tell an inspiring woman how much they are valued. It could be anyone — a friend, family member, teacher or mentor. A handwritten note is such a meaningful gesture of appreciation and love they are sure to treasure forever. There are countless other ways to celebrate Women’s History Month, but these are five simple and impactful ways to commemorate womens’ achievements throughout history. And remember, the power, perseverance and challenges of womanhood are not limited to just one month out of the year.
