Throughout March, TheHub.news will observe Women’s History Month, and the theme for WHM 2023 is “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”
In line with the 2023 theme, the core team here at TheHub.news offered their thoughts and opinions on what the month means to them.
“In the world I am creating, there would be no need for Black History Month or Women’s History Month because every day there is a celebration of contributions—both current and by our ancestors. But in the world we have, my responsibility is to keep being. Keep pushing. Keep lifting up the works of those who came before, those who paved the way for the being and the pushing. Our greatness must become an everyday norm.”—Karen Hunter
“Women’s History Month is important to me because it is a chance to highlight women who have been able to help make advancements in society. In addition to highlighting important female figures, women’s history month also provides a learning opportunity for both men and women. We are often able to learn about unsung heroes that may have never received recognition or credit for their accomplishments. Women moguls such as Cathy Hughes and the pioneering Fannie Lou Hamer serve as inspiration to me. Their ability to turn an idea into a viable business or, in the case of Fannie Lou Hamer, turn an idea into an actual town, has always been a representation of the fact that anything is possible with dedication— regardless of gender.”— Shayla Farrow
“To learn about the accomplishments of women, all it takes is one look at the world around you. Turning on a computer will remind you that it was Ada Lovelace, a woman, who created the world’s first computer algorithm. Going to the theatres to watch the latest movie will remind you that it was NASA scientist Valerie Thomas, a woman, who made it possible for you to watch it in 3D. Listening to the radio will remind you that rock’n’roll has a mother, and her name is the great Sister Rosetta Tharpe. For me, Women’s History Month is not a reminder of the accomplishments of all the women.
Instead, for me, Women’s History Month is a time when the women who were brave enough to look for the keys to unlock the doors are honored by the ones who were motivated by them to step across the threshold. For me, it was the words of Gwendolyn Brooks, Joan Didion and Lorraine Hansberry, amongst others, that motivated me to dedicate myself to a life of writing. For me, it’s all about the words sung by the gritty voice of Tina Turner, the saccharine voices of Carole King, Linda Ronstadt and Christine McVie, as well as the explosive voices of Aretha Franklin, Annie Lennox and Donna Summers; they motivated me to pick up my guitar and try to put into words what I’m also feeling. This month is theirs. Women’s History Month is for all the women who broke the barriers that unsuccessfully tried to contain their extraordinary ideas and passion to help build our world today.”— Veronika Lleshi
“Although women continue to make significant gains and garner major achievements, Women’s History Month comes with a mixed bag of celebration and criticism. The backdrop of these success stories remains painful because gender inequality is volatile. Racial and sexual discrimination, domestic abuse, economic inequality and widespread unemployment are a few of the many challenges faced, owing to a lack of protection and uneven-handed access to justice.
But, despite ongoing attempts to relegate women to the margins of society, I believe their lasting resilience, intent and care are reasons why they engage, inspire and affect good change anyway. For me, it’s humbling…and I am honored to salute them.”— Danielle Bennett
“I absolutely consider myself a creative. However, I know that without the women who came before me blazing the trail, my journey would be far more laborious. When it comes to role models, my mind often goes to the women around me. The women in my life are strong and bold, and when I look back at some of the women in history who have inspired me (Queen Nanny, Audre Lorde, Octavia E. Butler, bell hooks), it’s easy to trace the thread back to them. For me, Women’s History Month is a confirmation of our greatness. Of our power. Our tenacity. Our softness. Our empathy. Our romance. Our storytelling mastership and our ability to always get the job done.
We are often encouraged to pay homage to the “Founding Fathers,” Women’s History Month our time to acknowledge history’s true architects and disruptors.”— Ayara Pommells
“March signifies Women’s History Month and is a time to recognize and educate ourselves on-the strides of female forces across the nation. Women have always played an essential part in American history but are often faced with different treatment, especially in male-dominated fields.
Women’s relationship with American culture is complex, with certain societal standards placed on the female gender based on looks, family roles, professions and more. Yet there are countless women who pushed boundaries to create spaces for themselves. If it wasn’t for women continuously pushing for gender equality and justice throughout history, who knows where we would be today?”—Jonah Hackett
