The origin and evolution of Women’s History Month

March marks the arrival of Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the contributions of women throughout history. What started as a local celebration in California in the 1970s grew into a national observance, first as Women’s History Week under President Jimmy Carter and later as a month-long recognition declared by President Ronald Reagan.

According to the National Women’s History Museum, the earliest celebrations of Women’s History Month trace back to 1978 in Santa Rosa, California. Organizers selected a week in March to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8, highlighting the achievements and struggles of women.

As the movement gained momentum, more communities joined the observance advocating for national recognition. In February 1980, President Carter acknowledged their efforts by issuing a proclamation urging Americans to honor women’s contributions.

“I ask my fellow Americans to recognize this heritage with appropriate activities during National Women’s History Week, March 2-8, 1980. I urge libraries, schools and community organizations to focus their observances on the leaders who struggled for equality—Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, Lucy Stone, Lucretia Mott, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Harriet Tubman and Alice Paul,” Carter stated.

In 1981, Congress passed a resolution designating the week of March 7, 1982 as Women’s History Week. Over the next five years, Congress continued to pass resolutions requesting presidential proclamations for the observance. In 1987, after a petition by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed a joint resolution officially declaring March as Women’s History Month. That same year, President Reagan issued a proclamation recognizing the monthlong celebration.

“From earliest times, women have helped shape our Nation. Historians today stress all that women have meant to our national life, but the rest of us too should remember with pride and gratitude the achievements of women throughout American history,” Reagan stated. “I call upon all Americans to mark this month with appropriate observances to honor the achievements of American women.”

From 1988 to 1994, Congress continued passing resolutions calling for presidential proclamations of Women’s History Month. Since 1995, every sitting president including Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden has issued an annual proclamation designating March as Women’s History Month, according to the Library of Congress.

Each year, the National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) selects a theme for Women’s History Month. The 2025 theme is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” celebrating the leadership and influence of women in education, mentorship and advocacy.

“This theme celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship and leadership. Through their efforts, they have served as an inspiration for all generations—both past and present,” the National Women’s History Alliance stated on its website.

As Women’s History Month continues to be observed, it serves as a reminder of the progress women have made and the pending work that still lies ahead. Recognizing the achievements of women in history not only honors their contributions but also inspires future generations to continue advocating for equality, representation and opportunity for all.