JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA —
This month we celebrate Women’s History Month. Originated on March 12, 1987, the annual observance recognizes women’s contributions throughout American history. In 1978, the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission (ETFSCC) initiated a ‘’Women’s History Week’’ celebration. The week of March 8th, International Women’s Day, was chosen as the focal point of the observance and began in 1980 when President Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation.
The purpose of the observance is to celebrate the struggles and achievements of women throughout the history of the United States. The ETFSCC felt women’s history was an unknown topic in the curriculum of schools and the general public. As such, this celebration brought awareness to schools districts, communities, governors, city councils, organizations and the U. S. Congress, resulting in the establishment of ‘’National Women’s History Week.’’ By 1986, 14 states had declared March Women’s History Month which encouraged Congress to declare March as National Women’s History Month.
The observance of Women’s History Week, established by Public Law 100-9, was later extended to a month long celebration in 1987. The week of March 2-8, 2017 was designated as National Women’s History Week. During the 2017 observance, we strongly encourage all to learn about the heritage of women leaders who struggled for equality. Learn about pioneers such as Susan B. Anthony, Harriet Tubman, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Opha Mae Johnson, Sandra Day O’ Connor and countless other trailblazing women who paved the way for future generations.