It’s officially March, meaning it is Women’s History Month. In 1987, Women’s History Month was established by the U.S. Congress to honor women. This month has many different meanings and values for people. Some people think it’s a very important month, while some others think that it is just a regular month. But it is especially important for women, whose present lives were built based on the actions of historical women.

To a large group of women, this month spreads awareness for things like achievements, equality, and the impact of women. “Women’s History Month to me means celebrating women’s achievements in a world where they aren’t given much opportunity, and advocating for equality. Women can achieve anything they want, regardless of gender. Women in music, women in business, women in school, women in government, mothers, women in general should all be celebrated,” says sophomore Precious Sachi. Her statement highlights key reasons as to why Women’s History Month is valued as an important month.

A very important thing about being a woman is to experience girlhood and/or womanhood. Leslie Gomez, who is a freshman, says, “To me, girlhood or womanhood means to support each other and to have each other’s backs through everything.” Kaylee Ngoun says something similar, “To me, girlhood is that connection that all women have with each other. Whether it be family members, friends, or even strangers. It’s the memories we make and share with each other, sort of like an unspoken rule in some way.

Girlhood and womanhood have helped historical women keep each other’s heads up and stay confident in what they believed in. Over time, as women stood up for believing they deserved more, the lasting impact has paved the way for future generations. These women are considered superheroes by anyone who looks up to them in gratitude. “I would like to meet Rosa Parks because the impact she had on many people changed how the world is today, as she made the world more inclusive by breaking boundaries. I thank her for making the world a little more inclusive, and for helping to start a movement,” says freshman Leslie Gomez.

In the present day, there are still women who make huge impacts on the generations today. Any woman could make an impact on future generations in the present and even the future. Senior Carla Rich says, “I think Greta Thunberg will leave an impact on future generations because her words are moving when she speaks for environmental changes, which are important when it comes to thinking about future generations.” Women like Greta Thunberg are appreciated for talking about important issues and spreading awareness.

Although many known people have huge impacts on larger groups, women who impact other women don’t always have to be famous or known by a large audience. Junior Kaylee Nguon says, “I would say that the woman who inspires me the most would be my mother. She’s affected the way I look at life, and told me that I should truly live it to the fullest. As time goes on, I really do start seeing the major sacrifices she has made in order for me to have a better life. Her selflessness and strength, as well as optimism, really are something that I appreciate about her. And as a result of her, I really do think that she has made me into the person I am today.” No matter if their influence is big or small, any woman can have any kind of impact on you in any way.

Making March Women’s History Month just ties everything together to celebrate these women’s accomplishments that impacted many in society. “It has helped bring light to the struggles women have faced – those who were once oppressed and overlooked. It also helps encourage others to appreciate the works of women who have fought their entire lives to make a change in society,” said junior Kaylee Ngoun.

Which women from history have most inspired you?  Tell us in the comments!