March signifies the official start of Women’s History Month, a celebration highlighting the accomplishments, strength, bravery and perseverance of women throughout history. 

As society continues to evolve, there is greater understanding and recognition of everyday injustices that women face. The notion that women are less than men is not new nor unheard of, but as women continue to use their voices and change history for the better, the importance of celebrating women and Women’s History month grows stronger. 

“Just the very basic facts of that we require women for life on Earth is incredibly important. And often we’re like, ‘Oh, yeah, whatever. Women give birth, who cares?’ But even this, that basic human fact, is necessary to celebrate women,” Miami Palmetto Senior High biology teacher and Palmetto Women’s Union Sponsor Nicole Swanson said. “But on top of that, we have all of the societal issues. How much we depend on the unpaid labor of women a lot of times, like mothers, for a long time…And recently, we’ve been able to realize how we’ve been taking advantage of women…We’re not perfect, clearly, but we’re really working toward making equality even possible.”

An important part of Women’s History Month is that it reflects the impact that women have left on society, whether politically, scientifically or artistically. By commemorating these accomplishments, new generations of women will be inspired to do great things as well.

“I think it’s important that we celebrate such events because of our history. Women have systemically been oppressed and [it’s so nice] to finally have so many powerful and accomplished women being recognized — and throughout so many different lines of work at that,” president of Women of Tomorrow and Palmetto senior Jane Seyana said. “A prime example [is] Ketanji Brown Jackson in the Supreme Court. It’s beautiful and exhilarating and it’s something that’s important to us young women, sending a perfect message.”

From faculty to staff Palmetto functions thanks to the work of countless women on staff.

“Some veteran teachers that I definitely admire must [include] Ms. [Reishma] Seupersad. She’s been such a huge ally; she was the previous Patient liaison and she’s just something about my superstar. She is such a gentle person, and she’s also a very real person. She’s such a calming presence. Pam Shlachtman, just an all-around cool science teacher. [And] Dr. Sharp has really honed in on her craft, made sure she made it an incredibly rigorous class and that’s from likely 20 years of her teachings,” Swanson said. “In my personal life, I mean, my mom…She taught me compassion. She taught me patience — I know a lot of students tell me I’m a very patient teacher…”

To be a woman can mean many different things. It means strength, it means perseverance, it means gentleness and even empowerment. For Palmetto sophomore and treasurer of Palmetto’s Women’s Union Bianca Claro, being a woman brings a sense of pride. 

“Being a woman means having to balance being assertive and powerful but also being vulnerable to the people you meet… [It] can be very emotionally draining but also fun with the different ways you can express your femininity,” Claro said. “I take pride in being a woman because of the responsibility and long history that comes with being a woman.”

Seyana also expresses her love for being a woman through the ways she has learned from her mother and grandmother.

“My favorite thing about being a woman is my sensibility and understanding, two traits I feel are especially prevalent within women. When I think of my mom and grandma or even close friends of mine, they have this kind and understanding nature about them that I, too, possess but that I also love about them so much,” Seyana said. “Also, [I] can’t deny the cute clothes we have.”

An important part of Women’s History Month is sisterhood. Therefore, during this month, it is necessary that women continue to help and lift each other up at all times.

“Some advice I have for my female peers is to be confident. You are amazing and one of a kind and literally no one can ever be you. So be you and be the best version of you that you can possibly be,” Seyana said. “I know high school is hard and a time for transitioning and discovery, so use this time to build yourself up, not tear [yourself] down. Be beautiful, be educated and be powerful. The future is female.”

Though Women’s History Month is coming to a close, it is important that society continues to celebrate women and their contributions to society. Whether it be acknowledging their efforts, thanking them for what they do, actively fighting for equality or just being a supporter of women, there are many ways to celebrate and acknowledge the important role women play. Being a woman is both beautiful and empowering and a cause for celebration.