I've been giving thought to women's history month, and what it means to me. I've seen many posts honoring some of the greatest women that have ever lived, and the amazing achievements and contributions to society that they have made. Many have since passed on. I commend ALL of them for their greatness. And at the same time, I find myself wanting to acknowledge not just those that are known, but also those that are unseen. Each and every woman today is part of weaving the fabric of today's history.
Women are still experiencing what it means to live in a patriarchal society, in most cases still making less money, and are often less visible overall. It takes persistence and tenacity, and as women an even bigger push forth to make a difference. So I’d like to acknowledge those women that are currently working to improve our existence here. Though we may not make the history books, it makes our efforts no less important as a whole.
I want to acknowledge all of the mothers that have carried and are raising the next generation of children that will support this planet and create change and forward movement. Without proper mentorship from their Moms (and Dads), we would remain stagnant. Also, honoring the aging women who continue to share their wisdom that can only be gained after years of life and experience. And to the ones who birthed the mothers, that are birthing the children that hold our future in their hands.
To the women that nobody else may have heard of or noticed, who are taking both small and large steps to make things better for generations to come, we may not know you personally, but we know that you care, that you are tired, and we see you. Thank you.
I would be remiss if I didn’t also send a shout-out to all of the women past and present that work and have worked at Harlem Valley Homestead. Thank you for being crucial members of our team and for helping to build the future of this organization.
And lastly, though she has her own day of acknowledgment coming up next month on April 22nd (Earth Day). I want to acknowledge our great Mother Earth; the one that has supported all of us over time, the land that holds the deepest history and memories, and that contains the joy and the pain that no book or human mind can ever hold or imagine.
Happy Women's History Month, Keep on Shining!
Lynn