Women’s History Month is an annual observance held in March to recognize and honor the vital contributions of women throughout American history. It is a time to reflect on the achievements of women who have shaped our society, from trailblazing leaders and innovators to unsung heroes in every field.
The origins of Women’s History Month date back to 1978 in Santa Rosa, California, when the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women organized a Women’s History Week celebration during the week of March 8, aligning with International Women’s Day. The movement quickly gained momentum, inspiring other communities to hold similar celebrations.
In 1980, a coalition of women’s organizations and historians—led by the National Women’s History Project (now the National Women’s History Alliance)—successfully advocated for national recognition. That same year, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8 National Women’s History Week. Over the following years, support for the observance grew, and in 1987, Congress passed Public Law 100-9, officially designating March as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, every U.S. president has issued an annual proclamation recognizing the month.
Indiana University proudly celebrates Women’s History Month and honors the women who have helped shape IU and its local, state, national and global communities.
“Women have played a pivotal role in shaping IU and continue to drive innovation, leadership and progress,” says Rashad Nelms, interim vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion. “Throughout March, we recognize their achievements and contributions to IU’s legacy, as well as their impact on the world.”
For more than 200 years, women at IU have made groundbreaking contributions as researchers, administrators, artists, educators and leaders. The Women of IU Portrait Collection highlights these influential figures, including IU’s first female trustee, the first female Nobel Prize winner in economic science and the first African American woman to enroll at IU. The collection continues to grow, expanding the recognition of remarkable IU women.
Students, faculty and community members can celebrate Women’s History Month in 2025 through various events and activities across IU’s campuses. Visit diversity.iu.edu for ideas and the IU Calendar to explore upcoming programs.
Additionally, IU offers digital tools such as Zoom backgrounds, social media profile images and a Snapchat filter to help community members show their support for Women’s History Month.