Origins of Women's History Month

Since 1987, Women's History Month has been marked annually, honouring women's contributions often overlooked in history books and putting a spotlight on gender inequality. The observance coincides with International Women's Day, taking place on 8th March.

How it started

Women’s History Month was introduced to address the long-standing omission of women’s contributions from traditional historical narratives. It grew out of a local Women’s History Week started by educators in California in 1978, inspired by the lack of women represented in school curricula. Gaining national recognition in the United States in the 1980s, it was officially expanded to a month-long observance in March to coincide with International Women’s Day. Since then, Women’s History Month has expanded beyond the United States to become a globally recognised awareness month.

Why it was - and still is - needed

• History education overwhelmingly focused on men, despite women playing crucial roles in every major historical development. Women's History Month was introduced to encourage critical reflection on how history is recorded

• Advocates wanted students, especially girls to see women as leaders, innovators and change-makers. Women's History Month promotes gender equality by recognising role models

• The month provides space to highlight women’s achievements across race, class, nationality and fields of work and inspire conversations about representation and inclusion

How you can celebrate

From joining local or online events to supporting women-led businesses and women's rights organisations to hosting your own fundraisers, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Our Women's History Month Calendar is full of ideas, resources and actions you can take this March!