Events throughout Battery Park City and across New York City and State highlight month-long celebration
March is Women’s History Month, a celebration of the often-overlooked contributions of women to United States history, culture, and society. From Abigail Adams to Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth to Rosa Parks, the timeline of women’s contributions stretches back to the founding of the United States. Here at the Battery Park City Authority, we celebrate the incredible women whose dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence make a lasting impact on our community.
Each year, The National Women’s History Alliance designates a yearly theme for Women’s History Month. This year’s theme, Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, recognizes women throughout the country who understand that, for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination entirely from our lives and institutions.
The History of Women’s History Month
The celebration of Women’s History Month grew out of a weeklong celebration of women’s contributions to culture, history, and society organized by the school district of Sonoma, California in 1978. Presentations were given at dozens of schools, hundreds of students participated in a “Real Woman” essay contest, and a parade was held in downtown Santa Rosa. The organizers selected the week of March 8 to correspond with International Woman’s Day.
The movement spread across the country as other communities initiated their own “Women’s History Week” celebrations the following year. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. The U.S. Congress followed suit the next year, passing a resolution establishing a national celebration. Six years later, the National Women’s History Project (now the National Women’s History Alliance) — successfully petitioned Congress to expand the event to the entire month of March.
BPCA Events
In celebration of Women’s History month, on Tuesday, March 12, BPCA’s outdoor educator Marieke Bender will lead a nature walk through South Cove. She will present a unique take on environmental education and active conservation, striving to make the natural world more accessible and to encourage all to discover the great outdoors.
Then on Thursday, March 21, join us for an all-female evening of stand-up comedy with NY Laughs, featuring DJ Susan Z. Anthony. This unique non-profit seeks to enrich lives, build community, and inspire audiences through humor. This event is recommended for teens and adults, as some content may not be appropriate for young children.
More Information
NYS Women’s History Month Exhibition:
– Governor Hochul Announces Women’s History Month Exhibition Opens in the New York State Capitol
– Exhibit Available Online Here
Other Resources:
– International Women’s Day (Official Site)
– Women’s History Month in NYC Guide (TimeOut)
– Women’s History Month Events (New York Public Library)
– Women’s History Month Events (NYC Department of Parks & Recreation)
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