Women's History Month: Honoring Women Who Inspire
YWCA Black Hawk County
Updated Thu March 13, 2025

Celebrating the Achievements of Trailblazing Women
March is Women's History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible contributions women have made to society. At the Black Hawk County YWCA, we believe that empowering women and girls is essential to creating a more just and equitable world. This month, we're shining a spotlight on women who have inspired us with their courage, perseverance, and dedication to making a difference.
Pioneers in Their Fields
Rosa Parks: A Civil Rights Icon
"The only tired I was, was tired of giving in." - Rosa Parks
Rosa Parks' brave act of defiance on a Montgomery, Alabama bus in 1955 sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Her courage in the face of racism and oppression continues to inspire generations of women and girls. Learn more: Rosa Parks: Bus Boycott, Civil Rights & Facts | HISTORY
Sally Ride: Reaching for the Stars
"Young girls need to see role models in whatever careers they may choose, just so they can say, 'Hey, I can do that too!'" - Sally Ride
Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, broke barriers in the male-dominated field of astronautics. Her groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of women in STEM. Discover more: Sally Ride Remembered as an Inspiration to Others - NASA
Dolores Huerta: A Champion for Workers' Rights
"We must use our lives to make the world a better place to live, not just to acquire things. That is what we are put on the earth for." - Dolores Huerta
Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers, has dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of farmworkers, immigrants, and women. Her tireless advocacy has improved the lives of countless individuals and families. Read more: How Dolores Huerta Became an Icon of the Labor Movement
Malala Yousafzai: A Voice for Education
"One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world." - Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Prize laureate, has bravely advocated for girls' education in the face of Taliban oppression. Her courage and resilience have inspired a global movement for girls' education. Learn more: Malala Yousafzai – Biographical - NobelPrize.org
Frida Kahlo: A Creative Force
"The only thing I know is that I paint because I need to, and I paint whatever passes through my head without any other consideration." - Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo, a Mexican artist, broke barriers in the art world with her vibrant and emotive works. Her unapologetic portrayal of Mexican culture and her own experiences as a woman have made her an icon for feminist artists. Read further: Into The Creative Mind of Frida Kahlo: Her Art, Style, and Story – Altenew
Shirley Chisholm: A Trailblazing Politician
"If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair." - Shirley Chisholm
Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to Congress, paved the way for future generations of women in politics. Her tireless advocacy for civil rights, women's rights, and education has left a lasting impact on American politics. Discover more: Shirley Chisholm - Congresswoman, African American, Age, Children
Wilma Rudolph: A Sports Icon
"Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit." - Wilma Rudolph
Wilma Rudolph, an Olympic track and field athlete, overcame childhood illness and racism to become the first woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympics. Her remarkable achievements have inspired generations of athletes and women. Learn more: How Wilma Rudolph Overcame Early Health Problems to Launch a Record-Breaking Career
Together, Let's Celebrate Women's History Month
We want to hear from you! Who are the women in your life who have inspired you? Share your stories of mothers, grandmothers, sisters, friends, or mentors who have made a difference in your life. Their contributions, no matter how big or small, are worth celebrating.
Learn more about our mission to empower women and girls in our community. Visit our website to explore volunteer opportunities, programs, and services that support women's economic empowerment, racial justice, and girls' leadership development! See the change!
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