National Women’s History Month
The theme for 2019 is “Visionary Women: Champions of Peace & Nonviolence”, honoring women who have led efforts to end war, violence, and injustice and pioneered the use of nonviolence to change society. These women embraced the fact that the means determine the ends and so developed nonviolent methods to ensure just and peaceful results. This year’s honorees include:
- Lydia Maria Child (1802-1880) abolitionist, women’s rights activist and journalist
- Dorothy Day (1897-1980) social justice activist and journalist
- Dorothy Thompson (1893-1961) journalist protesting Nazism
- Susan B. Anthony (1820-1906) abolitionist, equal rights activist
- Violet Oakley (1874-1961) painter, stained glass designer, nuclear disarmament advocate
- Josephine Baker (1906-1975) entertainer, Civil Rights Movement activist
- Gertrude Bell (1868-1926) travel writer, explorer, ex officio diplomat
- Katherine Biddle (1890-1977) poet, advocate of civil rights
- Anna Gurvin (1932-2008) promoted internationally collaborative programs for arts and education
- Barbara Ward (1914-1981) economist and environmental humanitarian
- Rose Hawthorne Lathrop (1851-1926) philanthropist, writer, founder of home for victims of incurable cancer
- Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) equal rights activist, humanitarian
For generations, women have resolved conflicts in their homes, schools, and communities. They have rejected violence as counterproductive and stressed the need to restore respect, establish justice, and reduce the causes of conflict as the surest way to peace. From legal defense and public education to direct action and civil disobedience, women have expanded the American tradition of using inclusive, democratic and active means to reduce violence, achieve peace, and promote the common good.
From women’s rights and racial justice to disarmament and gun control, the drive for nonviolent change has been championed by visionary women. These women consciously built supportive, nonviolent alternatives and loving communities as well as advocating change. They have given voice to the unrepresented and hope to victims of violence and those who dream of a peaceful world.
Are you a visionary woman?
https://www.library.georgetown.edu/exhibition/women-champion-peace-justice-through-nonviolence, www.nwhp.org
“When women and girls are empowered to participate fully in society, everyone benefits.” Melinda Gates
“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made… It shouldn’t be that women are the exception.” Ruth Bader Ginsburg