The month of March is known for many things, a notable one being Women’s History Month. The month is a time to recognize the accomplishments and influence that women have had throughout history.
The stories of some of these women, like Rosa Parks and Dolores Huerta, are taught in schools, but the real-life impact they have on today’s youth is less often highlighted. These women shape how students view themselves, their future, and their place in the world.
When asked about a woman in history who has had an impact on her, junior Valentina Velez Magallanes brought up Malala Yousafzai. “She fought for women’s education and went through a lot along the way,” she said.
“Sometimes I even see her on TikTok and remember she’s still making change, which makes me feel like my voice matters.”
Senior Illona Wijaya said that her personal role model is Marie Curie. “She became successful in a field that is mainly dominated by men,” Wijaya said.
“I also want to go into STEM, and she makes me feel like I can do it too.”
For senior Vanessa Moreno Rodriguez, Women’s History Month is also about representation. She admires Dolores Huerta for her dedication to improving her community.
“As a Latina, it’s inspiring to see someone like me have such a huge impact,” she said. Huerta’s work has influenced Moreno Rodriguez to pursue a career that allows her to give back to her community.
Women’s History Month reaches beyond individual role models as well.
The month also creates a space for reflection and discussion among the student body. It encourages them, and people nationally, to acknowledge the challenges women have faced, the progress and successes that have been achieved, and the work that still remains. It is a reminder that history is not only something to memorize for tests, but a force that continues to have profound impacts on the world we live in today.
As American journalist and activist Gloria Steinem said, “The future depends entirely on what each of us does every day. After all, a movement is only people moving.”
