Since 1987, the month of March has been an annual declared month that commemorates and raises awareness of women and their historical contributions known as Women’s History Month.

Women’s History Month observed in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia dating back to 1911, all began as just a single day of recognition. Which then became recognized during the week beginning of March 8 by former President Jimmy Carter, and eventually turned into the entire month. 

In March 1913, the first major suffragist event was held in the form of a parade that took over Washington, D.C. and the National Women’s Party was officially formed four years later. On March 1 of 1972, Title IX, which prohibits the discrimination of sex in all federally funded programs, was passed by Senate and later that year became an official law. 

This is a time to celebrate women and all of their accomplishments, as well as educating people on women’s history and the fight for equal rights.

At Utica College, the Womyn’s Resource Center is a non-hierarchical student-run office and organization that develops programs and provides information and resources to students to further social justice and empower women. The WRC is currently in the process of becoming the K. Della Ferguson’s Women’s Resource Center, switching to women with an “e” instead of a “y” to be more trans-inclusive.

Jaydy Hernandez, the programming intern at the WRC, said working at the resource center has allowed her the opportunity to grow personally and become an advocate for not only herself but for others as well. She has been able to help provide a safe place for other women and allow them to know their worth.

“Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on how much women all around the world have achieved and what obstacles they have overcome,” Hernandez said. “But it’s also a time where I think of what more can we do? What obstacles do we still have to overcome? What can I do differently?”

Student Ambassador Peter Gaughan said he is proud to be an involved member of the WRC as well. 

“As someone who presents male, it is important to me that we constantly recognize the powerful herstory and struggle of women because so much of their hardship was imposed by men,” Gaughan said. “To socialize men and boys in a way that prepares them to enter a world of equals and to truly deconstruct toxic-masculinity; we must learn to value femininity, to respect accomplishment and try to understand each other’s stories.”

Educating not only men and boys, but all individuals on the importance of equal rights have been a long last objective for women’s rights activists. Planting the seed of equality in young individuals is what we need in order to continue making progress and change the world. 

In honor of Women’s History Month, the WRC is hosting virtual events. The Center is collaborating with W.I.N.D on March 17 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for an Open Mic Night titled “For the Girls.” Later this month, the center will be collaborating with the Black Student Union on March 25 for Black Women in the Arts Event.

The WRC hosts virtual meetings every Wednesday for those who are interested in becoming involved.