Women’s History Month celebrates the bold actions and valuable contributions of women throughout history. Although much of women’s history is undocumented, we honor the names of women known and unknown who through their knowledge, bravery and dedication, made our world a better place. 
 
According to “Women’s History Month,” a site created in collaboration with several governmental agencies, March is a time to “commemorate and encourage the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history." Many of us have a woman who comes to mind when we think about breaking glass ceilings – whether it's Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to attend a formerly segregated school; Sandra Day O’Connor, the first woman to be nominated to the Supreme Court; or Jeanette Rankin, who boldly ran for Congress and became the first woman to serve in the office after she was elected in 1916 (prior to her being granted the right to vote).  
 
We have countless women to thank for the progress made on our behalf in the last century.

In 1920, white women were granted the right to vote, a long 55 years after the first recorded suffrage groups were formed. Unfortunately, most women of color would fight for their equal right to vote for an additional five decades. Until 1963, women’s fair wages were not legally protected. Years of advocacy and determination by strong women and men culminated in the Equal Pay Act enacted by President John F. Kennedy. And in 1994, the Violence Against Women Act was signed into order, the first act that provided law enforcement with funds needed to adequately solve and prosecute crimes against women.
 
Even these incredible victories for women’s progress are celebrated with the knowledge that advocates worked tirelessly for years to accomplish them. These milestones did not simply happen; they were brought to fruition due to the men and women who saw a need in our nation and worked diligently to see that need met. 

As believers, we know that women and men share the privilege and responsibility of being God’s image-bearers (Genesis 1:27). The church has a high calling to honor and celebrate women as equal and special children of God, worthy of respect. As we celebrate women’s history this month, may we express gratitude to our Heavenly Father for the rights and freedoms we possess, and fervently pray for women who are still advocating for their rights, safety and freedom across the globe.