Message from Councilwoman Elizabeth Stamler | March 1, 2024
Every March, we dedicate the month to celebrating the achievements of women throughout history and their ongoing contributions. Women's History Month serves as a vital reminder of the often-overlooked roles women have played in shaping life in Scotch Plains and beyond, as well as a platform to highlight the ongoing push toward gender equality.
Throughout Women's History Month, local organizations hold educational events, lectures, and exhibitions showcasing the diverse contributions of women.
One such event is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on March 4 at the Scotch Plains Library, 1927 Bartle Ave. Plan to attend a special program with scholar Alexandra Rimer, author of the first and only biography of Mina Miller Edison, who became Thomas Edison’s second wife when she was 20 years old.
With unprecedented access to Edison family diaries, memoirs and letters, Rimer revealed how much of Edison’s much-mythologized public persona was, in fact, shaped by Mina. Despite the challenges that the young socialite encountered in becoming a wife to a difficult, distracted man and mother to his wayward children, Mina dedicated herself to ensuring Edison’s lasting fame as the most famous inventor in American history. (Copies of the book will be available to purchase from the author.)
Another great program is at Union College in Cranford on March 20, titled “One Woman’s Journey as an Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.” The program will feature McCarter & English attorney Simone Wilson-Brito, who will provide insightful experiences as a lawyer and champion of social justice. The event is set for 12:30 p.m. in the student commons, 1033 Springfield Ave.
Beyond celebrating individual achievements, I believe that Women's History Month is an important time to focus on equality. While significant strides have been made in areas like suffrage and access to education, issues still persist across various aspects of society, including pay gaps, representation in leadership positions, and access to healthcare.
Events and discussions during Women's History Month are an opportunity to address these critical issues, fostering dialogue and action towards creating a more just and equitable world for everyone.
Women's History Month originated in 1978 as a week-long celebration in Santa Rosa, CA. The brainchild of local teacher Molly Murphy McGregor, the event highlighted the contributions of women in American history through educational programs and community events. The initiative resonated across the nation, leading to similar local celebrations the following year. The movement gained further momentum in 1980 when President Jimmy Carter declared the first National Women's History Week. By 1987, Congress officially designated March as Women's History Month.
Women's History Month serves as a powerful reminder that women have always been at the forefront of progress and innovation, shaping our past, present, and future. It is a month for celebrating their diverse contributions and acknowledging the continued fight for equality.
By recognizing the struggles and triumphs of women throughout history, the month inspires us to build a future where opportunities and achievements are not limited by gender, but rather fueled by the potential of every individual.
As an elected official in Scotch Plains, and a proud community leader, I urge you to engage with Women's History Month not just as a passive observer, but as an active participant. For example, the Scotch Plains Library, which is filled with inspiring stories of women who are leaders of our time. I think about Malala Yousafzai, a young Pakistani activist who famously said, “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.”
Let Women's History Month push us all towards a brighter future, in which women's contributions are not just celebrated for a month, but recognized and valued throughout the year.
