Every year, March is dedicated to celebrating Women’s History Month, which focuses on honoring women’s contributions in American history. In 1978, a local Californian Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women organized a “Women’s History Week” and the movement expanded throughout the country. Then, in 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the Week of March 8, 1980, as National Women’s History Week. Congress then passed Public Law 100-9, designating March as “Women’s History Month” and since 1995, each president has issued an annual proclamation to honor all women. As Women’s History Month comes to an end, we would like to take the time to acknowledge some of the strong women that inspire our team.
Our Director of Housing Development, Miriam Hicks is inspired by Serena Williams not only because “she broke the all-white (literally) game of tennis to bring in color both in outfits that broke social norms and white supremacy thoughts”, but also because she increased diversity in the sport. Williams showcased this impact with power and grace. Racist systems must be broken or they self-perpetuate without any effort by all those participating or observing. Hicks is proud of her breaking the system because WE ALL are benefitting from her strength, courage and exceptional tennis game. “Beautiful Queen forever!”
Our Deputy Director of Operations, Kelle Senyé is motivated by multiple women that she has a personal connection with and is also just inspired by that have helped her get where she is today. First, Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) was incredibly smart and fearless in leading the women’s rights movement. “Trailblazer is an understatement when it comes to her journey.”
Second, Maya Angelou was eloquent in a way that felt comfortable and familiar. Senyé “can hear her voice or read her words and get verklempt almost every time.”
Third, Frida Kahlo was more than an artist, she was willing to speak up for what she believed in. Kahlo overcame great adversity, both physically and in her relationships to be her own person in her own right.
These strong traits are also seen in a person special to Senyé, her mother, Brenda Williams. Senyé explained how Williams was a single mom since she was 10, who worked so hard that Senyé never knew until she was an adult that they did not have anything. Her mother has always been her biggest advocate and taught her about fierce loyalty to friends and family. All these women have lifted Senyé up and allowed her to stand on their shoulders. Senyé explains how these are women that recognized her talent in that she never would have identified on her own.
All these dedicated and influential women that we all hold deeply in our hearts are the reason we celebrate all month long whether it be powerful leaders, inspiring athletes, influential artists, or personal connections in our everyday lives. Strong women should not be judged on how successful or put together they are, but applauded for their devotion, respect, and motivation to keep pushing through life’s battles and caring for their loved ones.
As Coretta Scott King once said,
“The woman power of this nation can be the power which makes us whole and heals the rotten community, now so shattered by war and poverty and racism. I have great faith in the power of women who will dedicate themselves whole-heartedly to the task of remaking our society.”