JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Triumph through adversity; a path most service men and women have had to navigate. Women, throughout history, have overcome obstacles unlike any encountered today. The Smithsonian magazine notes women were granted the right to vote less than 100 years ago and the nation elected its first female speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, a mere 11 years ago. Only 48 women have been accepted into the astronaut candidate program compared to 282 men according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. To celebrate the triumphs and contributions women have achieved, every year March is designated Women’s History Month by Presidential proclamation, honoring a tradition dating back to the 1980s.
As reported by the National Women’s History Project, President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential statement on Women’s History Week in 1980. President Reagan realized the accomplishments of American women couldn't possibly all be celebrated and appreciated in a single week so, in 1987, the week expanded to a month and every president since Reagan has continued the tradition.
Every year, the National Women's History Project chooses a theme for the month. According to the National Women’s History Project, this year's theme is “Nevertheless, She Persisted: Honoring Women Who Fight All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.” The 2018 National Women’s History theme presents the opportunity to honor women who have shaped America’s history and its future through their tireless commitment to end discrimination against women and girls. The theme embodies women working together with strength, tenacity and courage to overcome obstacles and achieve joyful accomplishments.
To commemorate Women’s History Month, the Joint Base Charleston Multicultural Committee will showcase a discussion panel, a keynote speaker and an all-female retreat. On 14 March, 2018 from 1000-1100, the Base Chapel Annex will feature a female panel consisting of influential leaders spanning the enlisted and officer ranks and the private sector. The panel will discuss the challenges of balancing personal and professional commitments and provide advice for success and perspective on relevant issues. The panel is open to any interested personnel.
The keynote speaker, who was also named one of the Top Influential Women in Corporate America by Savoy magazine, is Ms. Joan Robinson-Berry. On Monday, March 19, 2018, at the Charleston Club from 1100-1230, Robinson-Berry, the vice president and general manager of Boeing South Carolina, will share her compelling message on how to face challenges head on and remain humble throughout successes. Robinson-Berry progressed from modest beginnings in the violent streets of Los Angeles and rose through the ranks of a multi-billion dollar corporation where she currently leads over 7,000 people. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to order and enjoy lunch while listening to a woman who has risen to great success despite overwhelming odds.
To culminate the Women’s History Month observance, the JB Charleston will present an all-female retreat on March 30th at the 628th ABW Wing headquarters flagpole.
If interested in participating in this event please contact MSgt. Lavanna Corbin at Lavanna.Corbin@us.af.mil or SMSgt. Shannon Webster at Shannon.Webster@us.af.mil.