A Historical Look into Women’s Suffrage and Rights for Women’s History Month

Mothers, daughters, aunts, sisters, girls, women. All are part of a group of people who should be celebrated more. Women make up 49.6% of the world’s population, but inequality has been a problem for centuries, and women have been faced with discrimination and prejudice.

In the United States, Women’s History Month is celebrated every March. Notable female figures and all women are honoured as they are the foundation of society but have been looked down upon for far too long. The 2025 theme for Women's History Month is "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations." The world has come a very long way, as only 100 years ago, women in Canada could start voting in federal elections, although this did not include First Nation women. And only 4 years ago, the first woman in the United States was sworn in as Vice President, Kamala Harris. "While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last.” But sometimes it also feels like we are moving back in women’s rights, as in 2022, the Roe v. Wade U.S. Supreme Court decision was overturned, taking away women’s legal rights to an abortion. March is an important time to reflect on what women have accomplished, what they continue to do and how people can try harder to make the world a fairer place. As is said in many protests wanting to make a difference, women’s rights are human rights. Everyone must reflect on what women have done for society and the barriers they have faced and broken through. This theme tells people to keep telling their stories and inspire new generations.

International Women’s Day is celebrated everywhere on March 8th. It is meant to be a day where people all over the globe recognize women’s achievements without taking divisional ideas into account such as nationality, ethnicity, economic or political position. Instead, they are just seen as accomplishments of women. It has helped to build support for women’s rights and participation in politics and economic areas. It is a movement that wants people to evolve and change the way they think regarding gender and societal construction. Women have done a lot for the world, and those accomplishments should be showcased. This day is an opportunity to do so. "There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish" -Michelle Obama.

When looking at these times of reflection, a word is brought up very often: feminism. A major misconception about feminism is that women want to have more opportunities and are seen as ‘better’ than men. This grossly mistaken idea is untrue as the idea of feminism, Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day is the want for equality. Every person, no matter their gender, should have the same opportunities. “The beauty of being a feminist is that you get to be whatever you want. And that’s the point” (Shonda Rhimes).

As the American poet once said, “I dwell in possibility” (Emily Dickinson). I believe that our world is evolving and that one day, being a woman will not be more of a struggle than being a man and that, instead, it is celebrated. Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day are steps forward in making sure women’s accomplishments are applauded.