This year, the National Women’s History Alliance declared the theme for Women’s History Month as “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.” The theme’s goal is to highlight women involved in media and storytelling. While women should be celebrated every month, March, for me, is an opportunity to look into areas of women’s history that are affecting our present. Here are some ways to lift up women this month that feel especially meaningful to me.
Supporting your local newspapers is an amazing way to support Richmond women. Local newspapers are often the first to break important news stories before they reach national attention. Localized coverage builds local relationships and networks by highlighting notable women in the community. It is also a great place to find information related to local policy changes that affect issues such as abortion and paid leave.
The Richmond Times-Dispatch and Richmond Free Press are two of the biggest local newspapers in Richmond. If you also want more targeted national and international coverage, my personal favorite is the “Women and Girls” section of the New York Times.
Planned Parenthood, one of the most well-known organizations serving women, is a national non-profit that provides a range of healthcare services to women. Planned Parenthood has two Richmond locations, one in the East End and one by Carytown. Interested volunteers can register on the Planned Parenthood website and get involved with tasks ranging from interacting with patients directly, advocacy, education and fundraising.
Another way to celebrate women this month is to become a mentor for girls and young women. MENTOR Virginia has a database of quality mentoring organizations in your specified region and partners with organizations such as the NBA and the White House to support the mentee-mentor relationship. After asking for your background and preferences, it pairs you with an organization and mentee.
Reflecting on the 2023 theme specifically, this month is a great time to watch the many notable films released this year that were headed by female directors. “A Thousand and One,” coming out March 31, received an impressive 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and is directed by A. V. Rockwell. It follows the story of a woman who kidnaps her son from the foster care system and takes him to New York City where they attempt to make a life together.
Big-name movies such as “The Marvels” and “Barbie” are set to hit the theater later this year. “Barbie” is a potential awards season favorite to look out for, as it is being directed by Greta Gerwig, who previously directed “Little Women” and “Lady Bird.” At a time when feminist themes in movies are heavily questioned for their intent, an increase in female-directed movies is solid proof the industry may be heading in a progressive direction.