March is National Women's History Month

The theme for 2010's recognition of women is "Writing Women Back into History", and marks the 30th anniversary of the National Women's History Project.

This national celebration and recognition of women’s historic achievements began in 1980 when National Women’s History Week was proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter. In 1987, Congress expanded this national celebration to an entire month and declared March as National Women’s History Month.

During that time, the contributions of women were reflected in less that 3% of the content of teacher training textbooks. When the accomplishments of women were mentioned, it most often was in the form of footnotes. Women of color and women in fields such as math, science, and art were not recognized at all. This restricted integration of women’s accomplishments deprived many students of potential female role models.

This recognition has increased greatly, thanks to the diligent work of thousands of individuals, organizations, and institutions who have successfully written women back into history.