Recognizing Milestones

Honoring humanity creates an equitable and just society.

History matters. Not only does it show where we have been, it explains why things are the way they are. When it comes to building a more equitable and just world for everyone, everyday actions -- the large and the small -- matter. The Washington State Office of Equity honors the contributions of women who, through their actions, made this state and nation a better place to live. We appreciate the everyday actions -- the large and the small – women take to live, love, and thrive in safety and authenticity.

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Four women in meeting going over charts
  • Women’s History Month, March 1-31, encourages the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history.
  • Washington State Women’s CommissionMeetings and Events.
  • International Women’s Day, March 8, celebrates women’s economic, political and social achievements in every part of our society.
  • United Nations Charter, signed June 26, 1945, recognizes the principle of equality between men and women.
  • Americans With Disabilities Act, signed into law July 26, 1990, with women activists instrumental in its passage.
  • Equal Pay Day [date varies each year], represents the wage gap for that year.
  • Mother's Day [second Sunday in May], celebrates motherhood and honors maternal bonds.
  • Suffrage Movement, May 15, 1869, celebrates the National Woman Suffrage Association founded by Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to coordinate the national suffrage movement.
  • 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution passed by Congress June 4, 1919, and ratified on Aug. 18, 1920, celebrates women’s right to vote.
  • National Girlfriend's Day, Aug. 1, celebrates a day that girlfriends get together around the United States and celebrate their special bond of friendship.
  • Women’s Equality Day, Aug. 26, celebrates the certification of the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution, giving women the right to vote.
  • International Day of the Girl, Oct. 11, highlights and addresses the needs and challenges girls face, while promoting girls' empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights.
  • Rosa Parks, an African American woman, chose to take a seat on the bus on her ride home from work and was arrested for Civil Disobedience, Dec. 1, 1955, helping launch the Civil Rights Movement.
“We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color. Maya Angelou