As women's History Month comes to a close, I'm reminded of the women in our history that have paved the way to my successes and ours as a people. Last year amid the pandemic and Women's History Month celebration, I surveyed my sister colleagues at TGR Foundation to learn of their favorite moments, achievements and words of wisdom.

It's almost mind-blowing to think about how far women have come and still how much more work there is to be done as we move toward equity an inclusion for all.

Looking back at their responses reminded me of how fortunate I am to work with such inspiring women and more importantly the collective strength that we’ve built and can channel from those who guide and inspire us most. Although women's History Month is ending, the achievements of women will live on and will continue to grow throughout 2021 and beyond. Read on to learn about five monumental moments in women’s history and several women and words of wisdom curated by the ladies TGR Foundation.

OWNING OUR RIGHTS

The 19th Amendment Grants Women Right to Vote

On August 26, 1920 the 19th Amendment was certified by the United States granting women the right to vote. After more than 60 years the last 12 states to oppose women voting rights ratified the amendment. On March 22, 1984 Mississippi was the last state to seal the victory for all 50 states.

TAKING A STAND, KEEPING A SEAT

Rosa Parks Takes Seat for Civil Rights, Racial Equality

On December 1, 1955 Rosa Parks refused to move from her seat for a white man on a bus in Montgomery, AL. It was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s for Black Americans to gain equal rights. Parks refusal to give up her seat led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which was modeled after original boycotts in Baton Rouge, LA. The Montgomery Bus Boycott lasted 381 days and led to a Supreme Court ruling of segregated seating to be unconstitutional on November 14, 1956.

BREAKING BARRIERS IN SPORTS, EDUCATION & POLITICS

Shirley Chisolm Joins Race for President

In 1968, Shirley Chisolm became the first black woman elected to the United States Congress. In the 1972 United States presidential election, she became the first African-American candidate for a major party's nomination for President of the United States, and the first woman to run for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination. Although a woman has yet to hold the office of President of the United States, Chisholm paved the way to Vice President Kamala Harris and all the women before her who have served in various roles in office.

Title IX Creates Opportunities for Women in Academia and Athletics

On June 23 with the Education Amendments of 1972, Title IX provided protection from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive Federal financial assistance.

Women Rise in Professional Sports with Creation of the WNBA

On April 24, 1996 the Women’s National Basketball Association was founded providing female athletes opportunities to compete at a higher level. The league is currently celebrating its 25th year anniversary and consists of 12 teams.

REWARDING COURAGE AND HOPE

Malala Yousafzai Awarded Nobel Peace Prize

“On October 10, 2014, at the age of 17, Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani education advocate who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban, became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize. It’s this moment, when Malala was celebrated by the world for her heroism and activism.

There are many significant moments and achievements in our history because of women that are not listed shared in this post, but in each of them it’s clear that we’re stronger than we can imagine, accomplished beyond measure, driven by our passions and experiences and supportive of other women. As we move forward pursuing our dreams, achieving our goals and overcoming obstacles along the way, may these quotes give us guidance and inspiration.

REMINDERS

• “Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” - Oprah Winfrey

• “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible'!” - Audrey Hepburn

• “What makes you different or weird, that’s your strength.” - Meryl Streep

• “Who run(s) the world? Girls.” - Beyoncé

WORDS OF WISDOM

• “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou

• “Well-behaved women seldom make history.” - Laurel Thatcher Ulrich

• “You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a woman; you educate a generation.” - Brigham Young

• “There is no force equal to a woman determined to rise.” - W.E.B. DuBois

• “I think women are foolish to pretend they are equal to men. They are far superior and always have been. Whatever you give a woman, she will make greater.” - William Golding

ADVICE

• “Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. It’s your place in the world; it’s your life.” - Dr. Mae Jemison

• “Woman must not accept; she must challenge.” - Anonymous

• “Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another steppingstone to greatness.” - Oprah Winfrey

AFFIRMATIONS

• "It took me a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent." - Madeline Albright

• “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." - Maya Angelou

IN CLOSING

“Here’s to strong women.

May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.”

What’s your favorite moment in women’s history or words of wisdom by a woman who inspires or empowers you? Share in the comments below or connect with me on social media @JASMINECTATE.

Hugs & Handshakes

Jasmine C. Tate