March is here, and it’s not just about the promise of spring or shaking off the winter blues. It’s Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements, struggles, and contributions of women throughout history. For folks in St. Clair County, Michigan, this is your chance to celebrate the women who’ve shaped the world—and maybe even your local community—with style, substance, and a touch of sass.
Why March? A Brief History Lesson (Don’t Worry, It’s Fun)
You might be wondering, “Why March?” Well, it all started with International Women’s Day on March 8th. Back in 1978, Sonoma County, California, kicked off a week-long celebration of women’s history. The idea gained traction faster than a snowball rolling downhill (but in a good way). By 1987, Congress declared March as Women’s History Month for perpetuity. So here we are—celebrating women all month long because one day just isn’t enough.
How to Celebrate Women’s History Month Locally
St. Clair County residents don’t need to travel far to make this month special. Whether you’re looking to learn something new or just have fun while supporting women, here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Walk the Walk—Literally
Participate in a Walk for Women event this March. Slip on your comfiest sneakers and join others in honoring women’s strength and resilience. You can even organize your own walk with friends or family. Don’t forget to share your story online using hashtags like #WhyIWalk—because nothing says empowerment like a good stroll with purpose.
2. Host an Empowering Event
Throw a party that celebrates women! Here are some ideas:
- Organize a movie night featuring films directed by women or starring strong female leads.
- Host a book club and dive into works by influential female authors.
- Create awards for your gal pals to celebrate their accomplishments (because who doesn’t love recognition?).
- Decorate your space with quotes from trailblazing women like Maya Angelou or Frida Kahlo.
3. Support Women-Owned Businesses
St. Clair County has plenty of talented female entrepreneurs—whether they’re running boutiques, bakeries, or service-based businesses. Make it a point this month to shop local and support these hardworking women.
4. Spread Awareness on Social Media
Use your social platforms for good! Share inspiring quotes, stories about historical female figures, or shout-outs to local women who are making waves in the community. Bonus points if you tag your posts with #WomensHistoryMonth.
A Few Women Who Changed the World (and Why You Should Know Them)
Let’s take a moment to appreciate some historical heavyweights who paved the way for future generations:
- Harriet Tubman: Risked her life countless times to lead enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
- Susan B. Anthony: Fought tirelessly for women’s right to vote.
- Rosa Parks: Took a stand—or rather a seat—that ignited the Civil Rights Movement.
- Marie Curie: A double Nobel Prize winner who revolutionized science and medicine.
- Malala Yousafzai: A modern-day hero advocating for girls’ education worldwide.
These women didn’t just make history—they made waves that still ripple today.
Invest in Women—Literally
This year’s theme for Women’s History Month is “Investing in Women: Accelerate Progress.” While it sounds fancy, it boils down to one simple idea: putting resources where they matter most—toward gender equality and opportunities for women. Whether it’s donating to organizations that uplift women or mentoring young girls in your community, every little bit counts.
The Issues Women Still Face Today
While celebrating progress is important, let’s not forget there’s still work to be done:
- The gender pay gap persists.
- Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles and STEM careers.
- Domestic violence and sexual harassment continue to affect millions globally.
- Access to education and career opportunities remains unequal.
This month isn’t just about looking back—it’s about looking forward and committing to change.
Get Inspired Locally
St. Clair County has its own share of inspiring women—educators shaping young minds, entrepreneurs building businesses from scratch, healthcare workers keeping us healthy, and activists fighting for justice right here at home. Take time this month to recognize these unsung heroes in your neighborhood.
Whether you’re walking for empowerment or binge-watching movies by female directors, there are endless ways to make this month meaningful in St. Clair County. So grab your friends, family—or even just yourself—and dive into celebrating Women’s History Month with gusto!
Sources: nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org, blog.soroptimist.org, history.com
Header Image Source: Joeyy Lee on Unsplash
