5 Ways to Empower Young Women During Women’s History Month

Each year, Women’s History Month gives us the opportunity to honor the lives and achievements of the many remarkable women who have changed the course of history—women like Helen Keller, who overcame so many obstacles to become a champion for women, the disabled and the poor. 

In addition to learning about the many historical contributions of women, this annual celebration is also a time to encourage and support our young women to aspire toward greatness. There are many of ways that you can help young women find inspiration in history’s trailblazing women.

1.      Keep the legacy alive.

By teaching both girls and boys about women who have made their mark on history, we can truly honor these women and their accomplishments.  While it’s important to share what these women achieved with the next generation, it is equally important to highlight qualities like courage, passion and determination that both men and women can benefit from throughout life.  Ask both boys and girls to think about women they know who embody the qualities of extraordinary women throughout history.

2.      Live in the present.

In addition to educating young people about the accomplishments of women of the past, you can also share the stories of women who make today’s world a better place to live.  Raise awareness about women who hold leadership positions, but don’t forget the unsung heroes; from doctors and educators providing vital services in your community to mothers in impoverished and war torn regions of the world working to provide a better future for their children. 

3.      Question the norms.

While Women’s History Month helps us to remember the contributions of women, it also provides the opportunity for dialogue about gender norms and barriers that still exist today.  You can teach your children to think differently about these norms, for example, by sharing household duties equally.  By teaching a boy to cook and clean or teaching a girl  to use a toolbox, you not only take away boundaries and misconceptions but can open up new worlds of opportunity for a young person to explore.

4.      Talk about money.

You can also empower young women by educating them about money and giving them the tools and knowledge to be equal and active participants in their financial future.

5.      Support organizations that empower women.

There are a variety of organizations that promote gender equality around the world in a variety of ways.  For example, through our Homestead Food Production program, Helen Keller International supports women living in impoverished communities in Asia and Africa so that they may cultivate home gardens and farms with healthy, vitamin rich foods for their families. The program also empowers these women by giving them opportunities to earn extra income from surplus produce they can sell at local markets, enabling them to have more of a say in managing their household and family finances. Through education workshops, the program also works with other members of the households, including men, to address gender norms and break barriers that prevent gender equality.

Learn more about how you can use Women’s History Month as an opportunity to invest in empowering today’s women by visiting www.hki.org.

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