March is Women’s History Month: a time dedicated to celebrating the women who have made their mark on history, and the ones who continue to change the world, one day at a time. March serves as a reminder to honor the strength, resilience, and creativity women have carried through generations, often faced with unfair obstacles. Although only one month is dedicated to the history of women in the United States, it’s important to celebrate and uplift powerful women, and the women in your life, every day.
Here are five thoughtful ways to celebrate Women’s History Month this year, with practices you can carry into your everyday routine.
- Read a book written by a powerful woman that inspires you
Women’s literature is a great way to celebrate the contributions women have made to our history and society. From memoirs, poetry, scholarly works and novels, there are plenty of options to explore and connect with. A book I am currently reading that’s authored by a woman is “M Train” by Patti Smith, as she reflects on her life’s travels, academic work and artistic thoughts. If you aren’t a fan of reading, or don’t have enough free time on your hands, dedicate ten minutes each day to reading Her Campus articles. Her Campus is the perfect place to find current, relatable and impactful pieces from fellow women in college.
- Attend A Women’s History Month Event
Since it’s an annual national observance, there are countless events during Women’s History Month, such as festivals, talks and fundraisers. Try checking local event calendars to find one of these events near you. Here in SLO, consider supporting At Her Table, a nonprofit organization that celebrates women through food, wine and community gatherings. This year, they are bringing together over 250 SLO women-owned and co-owned businesses, for a seven-day event of classes, discussions and curated menu items. At Her Table has other events going on this month, and even more events throughout the whole year!
Cal Poly hosts powerful events for Women’s History Month each year, such as panels, celebrations, and specialized workshops that you can attend. International Women’s Day, a holiday that coincides with the United States’ Women’s History Month, will be celebrated by the Cal Poly International Center on March 9th. If you aren’t from San Luis Obispo, you can research what events your own school or town has to offer. If nothing speaks to you, or your area isn’t hosting anything, consider organizing your own event!
- Donate to local organizations supporting girls and women
A great way to support women directly in your community is to make a donation to a local organization. As a college student, you might not have much money lying around, but any amount can make a meaningful impact. At Her Table takes donations for food security, women-owned business support, and workforce employment. Try researching other organizations in your community; even if you don’t end up donating, it is still a great way to educate yourself on impactful local organizations.
- Reflect on a Powerful Woman in Your Life and Write Them a Letter
One of the most personal ways to celebrate women is to thank a woman you admire in your own life. Whether it’s your sister, mother, best friend, or professor, influential women play a big role in our daily lives. Take a moment to write a letter or note to one of these women, and thank them for playing an impactful role in your life. If there is a Her Campus writer you keep coming back to, contact them and tell them about the impact they’ve on your life! Even if you only end up sending a simple text, it is important to remind the women around you that they matter.
- Listen to Podcasts By Women
During your walk to class, workout, or study break, try finding a woman-hosted podcast that speaks to you. Podcasts are a great way to hear powerful experiences and opinions by women that are also relevant to current events, as they come out pretty frequently. You can even find podcasts hosted by someone from your college and reach out to them about their experiences! You can start by incorporating woman-hosted podcasts into your March routine, and find one you like to continue listening to all year!
However you choose to celebrate, remember that supporting women isn’t just for 31 days of the year; it’s a conscious practice to bring into your daily routine. Let this month be your reminder to continue (or start) new practices that celebrate the women you see in your life, community, or media.