While Women's History Month is an essential time to spotlight the incredible achievements and contributions of women across the globe and throughout history, it's also important to remember that women's accomplishments should be recognized and celebrated throughout the entire year. By weaving women's stories into lessons year-round, teachers not only provide a more accurate representation of history but also inspire and empower all students. Here are several ways that teachers can incorporate and celebrate influential women throughout history every day.
1. Integrate Women's Stories into the Core Curriculum
Often, women's narratives are only recognized within specific units or projects rather than being an integral part of the core curriculum. To counteract this, try to incorporate their stories:
In History: Instead of solely focusing on the prominent male figures during a particular period, delve into the stories of women who were influential during that time. For instance, while teaching World War II, discuss the role of women both on the homefront and in the military.
In Literature: Opt for a balanced reading list. For every male author or protagonist, include a female counterpart. This not only diversifies the types of stories students engage with but also showcases the rich history of women's literary contributions.
In Science and Math: Highlight women innovators like Ada Lovelace, Marie Curie, or Katherine Johnson. Discussing their accomplishments and challenges can inspire students to pursue their passions irrespective of societal expectations.
One of the best resources I’ve found that recognizes and informs about women throughout history, in many different aspects and areas, is The Book of Gutsy Women by Hillary and Chelsea Clinton. They introduce so many incredible stories of women who span so many fields-healers, explorers, inventors, activists… the list goes on. If you are lacking ideas as to which women to focus on during certain subject areas, this is a perfect resource for you.
2. Use Current Events
By connecting current events to historical figures, teachers can emphasize the ongoing nature of women's achievements. For example, when discussing space exploration, you can bridge the gap between the likes of Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space, and current astronauts such as Christina Koch and Jessica Meir.
3. Create a "Woman of the Week" Segment
Dedicate a few minutes each week to discuss an influential woman from history or the present day. This regular feature will serve as a constant reminder of the varied roles women have played and continue to play in shaping our world.
4. Collaborate on Research Projects
Encourage students to dive deeper into the stories of women by assigning research projects. These projects can be in the form of presentations, posters, or essays. Such assignments also allow students to explore areas of personal interest, whether that be in sports, arts, politics, or science.
5. Host Guest Speakers and Workshops
Inviting women from various fields to speak or conduct workshops can provide students with firsthand accounts of women's achievements in today's world. Reach out to parents, friends or family of your own, or even try contacting local female leaders in different capacities. Live near a college or university? Try contacting some of their female staff in an area that you are covering in class. Even looking around your own school for women who have faced incredible odds to achieve something could be profoundly influential to your students. These sessions can help to provide real-world examples of success and perseverance to all of your students and can be life-changing.
6. Incorporate Diverse Media
Books, documentaries, movies, and podcasts can all serve as valuable tools for teaching about influential women. Films like "Hidden Figures" or books like "I Am Malala" can inspire discussions about women's roles in society and the challenges they often face.
7. Encourage Group Discussions
Open discussions can be invaluable. After teaching a lesson that includes the story of an influential woman, encourage students to discuss their thoughts and feelings. These dialogues can help shatter stereotypes and broaden perspectives.
8. Celebrate Lesser-Known Figures
While it's essential to teach about famous figures like Rosa Parks or Amelia Earhart, it's equally important to shed light on lesser-known but equally influential women. Dive into stories of women like Dr. Gerty Cori, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, or Mary Anning, a pioneering paleontologist. The book I mentioned earlier, The Book of Gutsy Women, is a great resource for this.
Pictured above: Dr. Hawa Abdi and her daughters, Deqo and Amino (who also became doctors), Clara Barton, and astronaut Mae Jemison.
9. Create a Classroom Wall of Fame
Dedicate a space in your classroom to display portraits, quotes, and facts about influential women. Regularly update this wall, and encourage students to contribute to it. This visual representation serves as a daily reminder of the myriad women who have left their mark.
10. Integrate Women's History into Celebrations
On occasions like International Day of the Girl, Mother's Day, or even during national holidays, spotlight the achievements of women. This helps in normalizing the recognition of women's contributions and celebrates their importance irrespective of the occasion.
Incorporating and celebrating influential women throughout the year ensures that students grow up with a balanced view of history. By consistently highlighting women's achievements, educators not only rectify historical omissions but also create a more inclusive and empowering environment for all students. After all, every month is an opportunity to celebrate women's history.
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