March is here, and it’s not just about spring blooms or daylight savings—it’s International Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements of women who’ve shaped history and continue to inspire us today. For the good folks of Corona, California, this month is your chance to celebrate, learn, and get involved in meaningful ways. Let’s dive into how you can make this March unforgettable.
Why March? A Quick History Lesson
You might be wondering, “Why March?” Back in 1978, Sonoma County, California, kicked off the first-ever Women’s History Week, aligning it with March 8—International Women’s Day. The idea was simple: shine a spotlight on women’s contributions that often go unnoticed. By 1987, the movement had grown so much that Congress declared the entire month of March as Women’s History Month. That’s right—what started as a local celebration in California is now a national tradition. So yes, we Californians have bragging rights here!
Trailblazing Women You Should Know
Let’s talk about some women who’ve changed the game:
- Harriet Tubman: Risked her life to lead enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad.
- Susan B. Anthony: Fought tirelessly for women’s right to vote.
- Frida Kahlo: Redefined art with her unapologetic self-expression.
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg: Broke barriers in law and fought for gender equality.
These women—and countless others—remind us why this month matters.
How Corona Can Celebrate This Month
Looking for ways to honor Women’s History Month? Here are some fun and impactful ideas tailored for our community:
1. Support Women-Owned Businesses
Corona is home to some incredible women entrepreneurs. Whether it’s grabbing coffee from a woman-owned café or shopping at a boutique run by a local powerhouse, your dollars can make a difference. Supporting these businesses isn’t just good karma—it’s good for our community.
2. Host a Movie Night
Gather your friends and family for a night of films directed by or starring strong female leads. Think Hidden Figures, On the Basis of Sex, or even classics like A League of Their Own. Bonus points if you pair it with snacks from local women-owned eateries!
3. Walk for Women
Get outside and join a community walk to celebrate women’s strength and resilience. Use this time to connect with others and reflect on how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.
4. Dive Into Women-Centric Books
Start a book club featuring works by female authors. From Maya Angelou to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, there’s no shortage of inspiring reads. Plus, it’s a great excuse to gather with friends over coffee (or wine).
5. Spread Awareness on Social Media
Flood your feeds with posts about inspiring women or share quotes from trailblazers like Malala Yousafzai or Eleanor Roosevelt. Use hashtags like #WomensHistoryMonth or #CoronaCelebratesWomen to keep the momentum going.
Celebrate Local Sheroes
While we’re celebrating historical icons, let’s not forget the women making waves right here in Corona. Teachers shaping young minds, healthcare workers keeping us safe, small business owners driving our economy—these are the unsung heroes of our community.
Consider organizing an event to recognize these local legends. A simple awards ceremony or even a shoutout on social media can go a long way in showing appreciation.
Get Kids Involved
Teaching kids about women’s history doesn’t have to be boring! Schools in Corona can host essay contests on influential women or organize art projects inspired by female artists like Georgia O’Keeffe. Parents can join in too—take your kids to the library and explore books about women who’ve made history.
Why It Matters
Sure, you could argue that every month should celebrate women (and you’d be right). But dedicating March specifically ensures we don’t forget the struggles and triumphs that paved the way for progress. It’s about more than just history—it’s about building a future where everyone has an equal shot at success.
So whether you’re attending an event, supporting local businesses, or simply sharing an inspiring story online, know that your efforts are part of something bigger. Happy Women’s History Month, Corona! Let’s make it one for the books.
Sources: nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org, blog.soroptimist.org, history.com
Header Image Source: Library of Congress on Unsplash
