March is Women’s History Month. For nearly 40 years, the third month of the year has been set aside to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of women throughout U.S. history, including distinguished luminaries like Susan B. Anthony, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Marie Curie and untold others w hose contributions have helped to shape the lives of future generations. Starting as a week-long observance back in the 1970s, Women’s History Month has since grown into an annual commemoration, filled with celebrations and events that recognize the trailblazers whose words, actions or achievements have changed the world. In honor of Women’s History Month, learn more about how a grassroots initiative in California grew into the the 31-day observation it is today, which U.S. presidents were instrumental in making it official and suggestions on how kids and adults can meaningfully mark the occasion. When did Women’s History Month begin? Women’s History Month first began a local, weeklong celebration in Santa Rosa, California, in 1978, according to the National Women’s History Museum. The organizers picked the week to correspond with International Women’s Day, which is celebrated on March 8. The movement grew across the country as other groups and communities began holding their own celebrations in 1979, and in 1980, women’s groups and historians began lobbying for national recognition, according to the National Women’s History Museum. In February 1980, then President Jimmy Carter issued a statement asking for Americans to recognize women’s heritage in the U.S. during National Women’s History Week from March 2 to 8. “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 said. He continued: “Understanding the true history of our country will help us to comprehend the need for full equality under the law for all our people.” In 1981, Congress passed a resolution designating the week beginning March 7, 1982, as Women’s History Week. Then President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation in February 1982, emphasizing women’s achievements throughout U.S. history. “Recognizing that the many contributions of American women have at times been overlooked in the annals of American history, I encourage all citizens to observe this important week by participating in appropriate ceremonies and activities planned by individuals, governmental agencies, and private institutions and associations throughout the country,” Reagan said. 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics Feb 19 Hilary Knight scores to force OT, becomes U.S. Olympic all-time female leading scorer Education Nov 16, 2025 From roadways to classrooms, this New Mexico program is bringing women's history out of the shadows Over the next five years, Congress continued to pass resolutions requesting for the president to issue proclamations of Women’s History Week, according to the Library of Congress. In 1987, Congress passed a joint resolution designating the month of March as Women’s History Month, after the National Women’s History Project petitioned, according to the Library of Congress. Reagan then proclaimed March 1987 as Women’s History Month, according to his presidential proclamation. “I call upon all Americans to mark this month with appropriate observances to honor the achievements of American women,” Reagan said. What is the 2026 Women’s History Month theme? The 2026 theme for Women’s History Month is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” The goal, according to the National Women’s History Alliance, is to honor and “celebrate the diverse contributions of women who are leading sustainability efforts across environmental, economic, educational, and social justice movements.” This year’s theme is also intended to help raise awareness about the roles women have played, both past and present, in helping to shape sustainable change. How to celebrate Women’s History Month To engage students in the classroom, the NWHA suggests educators consider asking students to choose a social issue or topic like climate change or economic inequality, then research how a women has contributed to sustainability in that area. Other ideas include engaging student clubs in various Women’s History Month activities, like discussions around fast fashion and how it relates to sustainability, along with inviting students to take a deeper look at female artists and creators and how they’ve used their art as a way to envision a more sustainable future. For those interested in celebrating Women’s History Month in their communities, the NWHA recommends planning local events to honor women who’ve been instrumental in creating a sustainable future, volunteering in your community, planning a museum tour or visiting historical sites. Other resources include the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, Monumental Women and the National Women’s History Museum. This story first appeared on TODAY.com. More from TODAY: How US Men’s and Women’s Hockey Players Are Responding to Trump Call Controversy Hilary Knight Says President Trump’s Joke About Women’s Hockey Team Overshadows Their Success Woman, 100, Who Loves Water Aerobics and Lives Alone, Shares Her Simple Longevity Tips ...read more read less