This Women’s History Month, we celebrated the impact of women who have come before us and the women blazing new trails. It’s so important to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of women leaders and not let them be erased by history. Doing so is an important part of empowering and inspiring women today. Our work for change is built on the shoulders of other women before us. Yet, researchers have estimated that women’s stories make up only a HALF of a percent of recorded history.
We are stronger when we can see ourselves in the lives and legacies of those who came before us - including strong, pioneering women like Olive Boone and Annie White Baxter. Celebrating our history also creates the opportunity to share the vision for our future. Whether building on the contributions of those before us, or advancing the leaders of today and paving the way for those of tomorrow, we are united.
And, united, you celebrated women this month with your voices and actions. You joined long-time ally and partner, Bank of America Kansas City Market President, Matt Linski, in taking the #BreaktheBias pledge with more than 35,000 others around the world, you engaged in events to expand your knowledge and hear the latest research about advancing women in civic leadership, and you supported more than 22 women owned and led businesses to further empower women. Your actions help demolish barriers to women’s economic and civic leadership.
You unite for women to strengthen this movement. United, we navigate both the progress and setbacks, but we never lose sight that we can - and must - solve the problems of gender inequity for future generations.
I imagine the women whose historical contributions we celebrate want us to celebrate a better future that is possible for gender equity. A future where...
A woman president is not a novelty, but completely normal.
Elected offices are filled with as many women as men.
Women are equally represented in civic boards and commissions nationwide.
The pay gap isn’t even a conversation point anymore.
Every woman and family that needs it has access to affordable, quality childcare.
Women can be entrepreneurial and obtain professional licensing without unnecessary barriers.
A national paid family leave policy is in place.
Women can achieve their full economic potential.
If we can imagine this future, we can have this future. If we unite together, we can make this future a reality. I look forward to the Women’s History Month where we live this reality and celebrate the impact that we are making today as United WE - a more equitable, inclusive world for all. Let’s do this!
United WE Trailblaze,
Wendy
