How to Celebrate and Support Women's History Month
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH IN SEATTLE
As we delve into Women's History Month in the Seattle Area, it's essential to acknowledge the rich tapestry of women's contributions that have woven through the city's history. From early pioneers who fought for suffrage to contemporary trailblazers breaking barriers in various fields, Seattle has been a crucible of progress and empowerment for women. The city's commitment to gender equality is deeply rooted, evidenced by its role in the suffrage movement and the establishment of the first chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) west of the Mississippi.
Today, Women's History Month serves as a poignant reminder of Seattle's legacy of - and continued need for - activism and advocacy, inspiring ongoing efforts to champion gender equity in all facets of life. By celebrating and supporting women-owned businesses and events, we not only honors its past but also reaffirms our dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable future for all.
Throughout the month, there are dozens of opportunities for locals to unite in honor of the remarkable achievements and contributions of women, while also shining a spotlight on local businesses and events that empower and support women in our community.
Community Discussions and Social Events
Social events abound, celebrating women's achievements through empowering workshops, panel discussions, and community gatherings. Whether attending film screenings, participating in women-led marches, or joining in other activities, there are numerous ways to honor and uplift women this month.
Women's History Month Events to check out:
3.5 | Lower Queen Anne International Women’s Day: Inspiring Change
3.8 | Downtown Seattle International Women's Day Expo
3.8 | South Seattle International Women's Day SCA Live Sessions Concert
3.9 | Greenlake Women's History Month 5k
3.21 | Downtown Seattle What She Said: Women in Sustainability
3.23 | SoDo Ignite the Future Spring Gala
See a more extensive list of events on our Women's History Month Community Calendar
Eat, Drink and Shop
There's a definitive, thriving landscape of female entrepreneurship in and around Seattle. From gyms to alternative medical care, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and beyond, make sure to explore the diverse range of women-owned establishments shaping our city.
Some of our favorite establishments:
Plum Bistro Makini Howell’s restaurants honor the transformation that is occurring in the way we view food and our personal responsibility to our communities. She is a lifelong vegan who believes that what is good for the individual will be good for the planet and that this is nowhere more evident than in the diet we choose.
Monorail Espresso now owned by barista and manager Amiee Peck, was the first espresso cart in the nation. As the name would imply, the cart was put right to work at the entrance of the Seattle monorail and business exploded. It single handedly kicked off a coffee cart craze in Downtown Seattle.
COMMUNION Restaurant & Bar is a place where you feel seen. A place that feels like comfort, rest, relief, and peace. Our mission is to provide the food, the familiarity, and the intimacy that make you feel at home.
New Leaf Natural Medicine specializes in integrated care, meaning each visit includes naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, and craniosacral therapy or visceral manipulation. With two locations in West Seattle, New Leaf Natural Medicine provides something for everyone.
Hello Robin Cookies Owned by Robin Wehl Martin, Hello Robin lets you create the ice cream sandwich of your dreams with their delicious selection of homemade cookies. Since 2013, Robin has been sharing cookies and kindness at Hello Robin.
Kings Hardware Linda Derschang’s King’s Hardware, in Ballard, combines a unique offering of regional beers, skee-ball, taxidermy, and inventive takes on classic bar grub that can be enjoyed on the bar’s heated patio.
Rachels Ginger Beer Rachel Marshall started Rachel's Ginger Beer in a borrowed kitchen, transforming it into a beloved Seattle institution. While Rachel is no longer with us, her business's enduring success stands as a testament to her commitment to community and entrepreneurial vision.
Wellness Gaines Fitness The team at Wellness Gaines is on a mission to make all aspects of well-being more accessible under one roof, combining elements of physical, mental and spiritual fitness into holistic solutions. Regardless of age, ability or fitness goals.
See a comprehensive list of Woman-owned establishments on the Intentionalist website
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH DETAILED:
The origins of Women’s History Month date back to 1978 in Santa Rosa, California, when the Education Task Force of Sonoma Country Commission on the Status of Women planned a “Women’s History Week” celebration during the week of March 8 to correspond with International Women’s Day. Led by Molly Murphy McGregor, a local teacher in Santa Rosa, the weeklong celebration highlighted women’s contributions to American history, culture, and society through presentations at dozens of schools throughout Sonoma County, California. Additionally, hundreds of students participated in an essay contest honoring local women, and the organization hosted a parade in downtown Santa Rosa.
Although the 1978 event was not intended to become an annual celebration, the following year, communities across the country organized their own women’s history celebrations. In July of the same year, historian Gerda Lerner chaired a 15-day conference on women’s history at Sarah Lawrence College, which was co-sponsored by the Women’s Action Alliance and the Smithsonian Institution. After the conference, historians and women’s activist groups began working together to lobby for a National Women’s History Week.
Their efforts proved successful when, in February 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 2–8, 1980, as National Women’s History Week.
In 1987, after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project (NWHA), a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring and preserving women’s history, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9, which proclaimed March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” Since 1988, Congress and the president have annually issued resolutions and proclamations declaring March as Women’s History Month.
