Pre-pandemic, we could find lectures and talks to attend during Women's History Month. We'd gather to celebrate and network. Basking in the pride of the accomplishments of those who came before us, we would connect and commiserate.
Those feelings of empowerment would serve as the catalyst for us to continue the work. In 2021, however, we remain disconnected from one another. So, how do we honor and celebrate women this March? Here are 6 ways to honor Women's History Month in 2021 to propel toward continued growth and change.
Why celebrate Women's History Month?
Honor Women's History Month at home
This year, although we can't be together as we honor women and celebrate their accomplishments, we can still recognize their contributions during Women's History Month, right at home.
4. Host a multi-generational virtual book club.
Read books by and about women of the past and present. Recently, the publisher of Michelle Obama's book, Becoming, released Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers. Obama's inspirational memoir transcends generations and is a testament to the fact that we're all changing and growing, at every age and stage of our lives. For more virtual book club ideas:
- Discovery has compiled a list of 60 inspirational books for women.
- Read Brightly also compiled a list of books for young readers that celebrate women.
5. Devour some moving poetry written by strong women.
We all fell in love with Amanda Gorman at the Inauguration of Joe Biden, as she read her poem, The Hill We Climb. If Gorman's moving recitation left you clamoring for more poetry in your life, seek out other poets who are changing the game like Latina poet, Vanesa Pacheco. Pacheco recently released an erasure poetry chapbook entitled Slippery Tongues that reworks,The Hammer of Witches, a 15th-century text that proved harmful to young women of the time period accused of witchcraft.
"I choose to erase this text to fight back. To give voice to the women who have been erased. Women do not come second," Pacheco writes in the book's introduction. "Women will no longer be erased. I erase to empower."
6. Watch movies by powerful women filmmakers.
Filmmaker Ava DuVernay is the first African-American filmmaker to receive a nomination for a Golden Globe award. A family movie night screening of Selma or A Wrinkle in Time may be in order during Women's History Month. Celebrate the women in film:
- Cnet.com has several recommendations for inclusive and diverse TV shows and movies to watch this month.
- PBS.com also has a list of documentaries and stories that celebrate women in history.
This year, during Women's History Month, let's remember the wise words of the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg, "Fight for the things that you care about but do it in a way that will lead others to join you."
