There are an impressive number of strong, brave women who have impacted our society in significant ways. Their lives have changed the course of how we live ours. Unfortunately, many of these women's stories and identities go unnoticed when we talk about the history of the world. The change they made is not recognized to the degree it should be, if it is recognized at all. Fortunately, The month of March is Women's History Month, dedicated to showcasing these women, and giving them the credit they deserve. So, in honor of our powerful sisters, I have compiled a list of 15 women to get to know, for the remaining 15 days the month of March. Some of these women you may have heard of, some of them you may have not, but they are all worth our attention. Most of these examples relate specifically to the United States, because it is based on my opinion. Keep in mind, I recognize there are women all over the world who have shaped our lives, who might not be represented here.
Here's my challenge, look up one of these women each day until the month is over, to begin learning about these figures we don't learn about in school. Add to this list, and share the knowledge!
1. Malala Yousafzai, activist for the education of young women.
2. J.K. Rowling, novelist and the creator of the Harry Potter Series.
3. Michelle Obama, First Lady of the United States and advocate for youth healthy living.
4. Rosalind Franklin, chemist and discoverer of the molecular structure of DNA.
5. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, supreme court justice of the United States and women's rights warrior.
6. Alice Paul, suffragist and main advocate that helped women gain the right to vote.
7. Audrey Hepburn, actress and Goodwill Ambassador of UNICEF for impoverished children.
8. Susan La Flesche Picotte, the first Native American woman to become a physician in the United States.
9. Dame Jane Goodall, primotologist/ethologist and UN Messenger of Peace.
10. Mary Anning, paleontologist who made important contributions to our understanding of Jurassic marine fossils.
11. Amal Clooney, lawyer and advocate for respect of international law.
12. Amy Poehler, actress/comedien and founder of "Smart Girls" to encourage activism and volunteerism among young girls.
13. Diane Nash, civil rights activist and leader of the student-led piece of the Civil Rights movement.
14. Althea Garrison, trans rights advocate and the first trans-woman to be elected to State legislature.
15. Maya Angelou, writer and civil rights activist that brought attention to issues of race in her writing.
We need to start talking about these women in the capacity they deserve. This list is NOT exhaustive in any sense, but we must start somewhere. Good luck researching, and remember to share what you learn with others!
