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Women's History Month: Home

About Women's History Month

"Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations"

Women's History Month had its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed Pub. L. 97-28 which authorized and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week.” Throughout the next five years, Congress continued to pass joint resolutions designating a week in March as “Women’s History Week.” In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” Between 1988 and 1994, Congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the President to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, presidents have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.” These proclamations celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and recognize the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields.

The Library of Congress. Women’s History Month. https://www.womenshistorymonth.gov/About.html. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.

Gateway Libraries

Smithsonian Women's History Month

The Smithsonian’s American Women's History Museum website offers a rich collection of resources celebrating the contributions of women throughout U.S. history. It features virtual exhibitions, educational materials, and biographical profiles of influential women across various fields. The site also provides research tools, archival collections, and event information related to women's history. Additionally, it highlights ongoing efforts to establish a physical museum dedicated to women's achievements and offers opportunities to get involved through donations and partnerships.

The National Archives Celebrates Women’s History Month

Suffrage parade in Washington, DC, March 3, 1913. View in National Archives Catalog

The National Archives’ Women’s History page provides access to historical documents, photographs, and records related to women's contributions in U.S. history. It features curated exhibits, teaching resources, and research guides on topics such as women's suffrage, military service, and civil rights activism. The site also highlights digitized collections, virtual events, and opportunities to explore archival materials that document the impact of women in shaping the nation.

National Women's History Museum

The National Women’s History Museum website is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of women who have shaped history. It provides educational resources, virtual exhibits, biographies, and articles on influential women across various fields. The site also promotes events, advocacy, and initiatives to advance women's history education.