March is Women’s History Month. Throughout the month, Broadway Stages will feature and celebrate exceptional women who have made a mark, and those who continue to make a difference in the story of our future.  We encourage you to join us on this storytelling journey of adventure, commitment, knowledge, and voice. 

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Women’s History Month was born out of a celebration that took place in 1978 in Sonoma County, California.  The Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women established a “Women’s History Week” celebration complete with contests including a “Real Woman” essay contest and a parade.

The week of March 8th was chosen to correspond with International Women’s Day that took place for the first time on March 8, 1911.  But did you know that the first official National Woman’s Day was held in New York City on February 28, 1909? Yep, we did that!

Over the next few years, the movement steadily spread across the nation. By 1980, the National Women’s History Project (now the National Women’s History Alliance) led an effort seeking national recognition.  In February of that year, President Jimmy Carter made it official by declaring the week of March 8, 1980, National Women’s History Week. Six years later, Congress voted to expand the event to the entire month of March. The rest, as they say, is history. 

2023 WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

“Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories” is this year’s Women’s History Month theme.  One, we are rather fond of. Women in every community across the globe have devoted their lives and talents to producing art and pursuing truth. From the earliest storytellers and artists, to pioneers in filmmaking, women have been instrumental in sharing their stories that allowed for understanding, progress, accomplishment, and recognition.

The stories of and told by women are a vital part of the fabric of our society and the history of our nation, indeed among the foundational pillars of the film and television industry.  We look forward to shining the spotlight on women and their stories! 

Read more about the interesting story behind International Women’s Day and it’s Brookyn roots.  And be sure to follow us for more amazing stories about women whose stories have changed the world.