March is Women's History Month

Last Updated on Wednesday, 12 January 2011 11:54

Painting of 4 women in classical greece clothing The public celebration of women's history in this country began in 1978 as "Women's History Week" in Sonoma County, California. In 1981, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and Representative Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) co-sponsored a joint Congressional resolution proclaiming a national Women's History Week. In 1987, Congress expanded the celebration to a month, and March was declared Women's History Month.

In 2007, President Bush said the following in his Presidential Proclamation for Women's History Month:

Our Nation is a land of great opportunity, and women are seizing that opportunity and shaping the future of America in all walks of life. A record number of women are serving in the halls of Congress, and the number of women-owned businesses continues to grow. The women of our Armed Forces are making a vital contribution to our Nation’s security by serving the cause of freedom and peace around the world. And by giving care and guidance, America’s mothers are helping to build the foundation for the success of our Nation’s children and strengthening the character of our country. This month, we honor the spirit, leadership, and hard work of American women.

You can view the entire text of his 2007 Proclamation in the EBSCOHost Database or at the White House website.

Your hometown libraries have a lot of stories of some women that have changed, entertained, enlightened or impacted our world. Here are some recent biographies you can check-out at your hometown libraries. Book Jacket cover of Ethel Merman biography