The Importance of Women's History Month - Philadelphia Protestant Home
Independent Living Phone: 215-697-8086 Personal Care Phone: 215-697-8031 Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Phone: 215-697-8005
General Inquiries: (215) 697-8000
- View All Phone Numbers -

The Importance of Women’s History Month

Posted on: Mar 01, 2023

The origins of Women’s History Month began in 1911, during the first International Women’s Day. Celebrated on March 8, International Women’s Day is an annual celebration that recognizes the accomplishments of women, while also highlighting  the many obstacles they face to achieve equality with men. In 1978, “Women’s History Week” was celebrated in Sonoma County, California. The celebration was championed by Gerda Lerner, a historian, who was one of the founders of the academic field of Women’s History.

Gerda Lerner, feminist pioneer

In 1980, a consortium of women’s groups and historians—led by the National Women’s History Project (now the National Women’s History Alliance)—successfully lobbied for national recognition. President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8, 1980 as National Women’s History Week. Seven years later, Congress officially declared March as Women’s History Month, with a special Presidential Proclamation being issued every year.

Why was there such a push for honoring and celebrating women every March? It was born out of a need for equal access to jobs and education. The “Strike for Equality” march took place in New York on August 26, 1970. There were over 100,000 women (and some men) who took part demanding equality.

Above is an iconic photo from the Strike for Equality March, August 26, 1970

We celebrate Women’s History Month to remind ourselves of the accomplishments of women throughout the years to our culture and society. From science to politics, it is a chance to reflect on the trailblazing women who lead the way for change.

At PPH, we look forward to several presentations by our own residents that will share their life experiences.

Happy Women’s History Month!

What Residents Say

"In my nine years at PPH, I’ve grown to like it very much. At first, I felt like a stranger and then as I began to talk to people, we increasingly became good friends. A way to meet people is to join clubs. I’m now part of the PPH Auxiliary. I love helping with their flea markets because you never know what you can find. Recently, I’ve joined an evening quilting class. I love that I can continue to enjoy my life outside of PPH while experiencing the offers here.…especially the pool! Everything is just so convenient.

– Lucille Hite, Independent Living resident

What Families Say

"My mom is sooo happy at PPH, I can’t even describe it in strong enough words. She’s met so many new friends and these ladies do EVERYTHING together! She sees Dad every day in Pathways, but can have her life too. She’s gone to so many activities and I think I’ve already been to Scoops with her at least 15 times. She loves the dining room and Bistro too. My sister, Ilene, and I are so delighted that Mom is happy.......Wow, it feels like Mom’s been there about 2 years—but it’s only 2 months!! That’s how comfortable and natural it feels for her – and for all of us.

– Rhonda Frenkel, daughter of resident Bernice Segal

Philadelphia Protestant Home