Every March, WriterGirl is eager to celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day. We take this time to recognize the achievements and contributions women have made throughout American history. It’s also a time to acknowledge the work that needs to be done as we push for women’s equality. 
It’s great to look back and honor women for their brilliance, leadership, creativity and service. But in 2021, I choose to celebrate the women making history right now. These women aren’t plotting a mission to Mars, leading a civil rights movement or creating an artistic masterpiece. They’re women who never imagined a pandemic could upend their 21st century lives.
COVID-19’s historical impact on women’s lives
The women I honor this year juggle virtual school, remote work and broker the in-home real estate and power grids to make it all possible.
They’re women who redefine nimble as they lead a small business through a fragile economy.
They’re sisters who miss hugs and holidays with extended family.
They’re grandmas who need to hold that new baby soon and daughters scouting vaccine options for elderly parents.
These women are my WriterGirl colleagues, my friends and my neighbors. They’re all of us.
Fifteen months into the pandemic, the stark reality is COVID-19 impacts nearly every aspect of women’s lives. A quick internet search delivers plentiful data on how the virus’ affects women’s mental health, women’s rights and women’s careers. Consider these stats:
- Women make up 39% of the global workforce but account for 54% of overall job losses.
- 27% of women worldwide reported increases in mental health challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to 10% of men.
- Analysis from March-April 2020 showed an outsized COVID-19 impact on women that could mean it will take up to an extra 51 years to reach gender equality.
It’s always been easy for me to look at history as something other people make. This Women’s History Month, that’s no longer possible. Let’s use this time to celebrate women’s achievements in all of their many forms. And maybe most importantly, celebrate you.
Is there an important past or present-day woman you admire for their work enhancing gender equality? Join WriterGirl in celebrating women this month by telling us about them on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.
