Women have been responsible for so many societal achievements over time. A few famous women are often taught about, such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Susan B. Anthony and Rosa Parks. However, there are many under-recognized women with incredible impacts on the world. Here are a few!
- Patsy Mink
Patsy Mink made history as the first Asian American woman elected to Congress. She served Hawaii as a member of the House of Representatives beginning in 1965, and later as the first Asian American person to run for President. During and beyond her time in office, she fought against gender and racial discrimination and authored Title IX.
- Margaret Hamilton
You’ve probably heard of the Apollo missions, which explored the moon between 1969 and 1971. Yet, you may not be familiar with the woman behind the voyage, Margaret Hamilton. She was among the first software engineers and led the team that wrote the code for the space missions.
- Margaret Sanger
If you use birth control, you have been affected by the work of Margaret Sanger. She opened the first birth control clinic in 1916 but was put in jail as a result. Later, it was reopened to be used for medical reasons and eventually became Planned Parenthood.
- Amelia Boynton Robinson
Amelia Boynton Robinson led an incredible life, making a significant mark on the civil rights movement. She helped to get out the vote among African American communities, holding registration drives for hopeful voters. She also led the historic 1965 civil rights march that resulted in Bloody Sunday and was eventually recognized for her impact with the Medal of Freedom.
- Sylvia Rivera
Sylvia Rivera was a Latina transgender rights activist who fought for the inclusion of transgender people in sexual orientation non-discrimination acts. She focused on the intersection of poverty, race and gender, advocating for lower-income POC members of the LGBTQ community.
These and many more remarkable women have made massive contributions to society and even paved the way for many of us in our own lives. Consider spending some time reading about more influential women you look up to or you have never heard of before. Women’s contributions to society are limitless and awe-inspiring.