The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners officially proclaimed March as Women's History Month on Tuesday, March 18.
The proclamation highlighted women's roles in shaping the economy, arts, culture, social progress and volunteerism.
It also acknowledged the growing representation of women in government and the military.
"Whereas women of every race, class and ethnic background have made and continue to make historic contributions to the growth and strength of Thurston County, the state of Washington, our nation, and the global community," the proclamation states.
The proclamation also recognized the unique position of women as the majority of the nation's volunteer labor force.
The board encouraged residents to honor and celebrate women's achievements.
The meeting also featured a presentation from Ashley Whitley, program manager for the Washington Center for Women in Business.
Whitley outlined the center’s impact, noting it assisted 63 businesses in the past year through coaching and business planning. She also highlighted historical innovations led by women.
The center focuses on providing information, networking opportunities and support for startups, including creating checklists and assisting with business plans.
Another presentation was from Angela Jefferson, of the League of Women Voters, who delivered a speech calling for vigilance in protecting democracy.
"Today, our core American values are under attack because this administration and its enablers are taking actions that trample on the rule of law, betray our democratic ideals, and undermine the freedoms that belong to us all," Jefferson said.
Jefferson raised an "urgent call to action" for citizens and elected officials to defend democratic principles, urging them to speak out against hate and recommit to the nation’s founding ideals.
She stressed that upholding democracy and the rule of law is not a partisan issue, but a fundamental American responsibility.
She also provided a brief history of the League of Women Voters, which was founded in 1920. She emphasized its work in expanding voting access and promoting sound public policy in Thurston County.
Jefferson also noted the League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, nonprofit civics organization that welcomes individuals of all genders, and is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion.
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Tish18
Why do they proclaim such events as Women's History Month when the month is more than half over instead of at the very beginning of the month OR event the week or more before. All of March is Women's History Month, but it isn't proclaimed until it is almost over. Doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
Wednesday, March 19 Report this
Snevets
@Tish18 Agreed & actually every month is Women's month for all the reasons.
Thursday, March 20 Report this
Carolyn Byerly
I am not sure why this proclamation wasn't adopted BEFORE Women's History Month, but glad it has been. And, thank you Angela Jefferson for your clear, forthright statement about women and the present political situation that threatens women and all of us. We struggle on with resolute determination to maintain the rights that we have gained with great difficulty.
Thursday, March 20 Report this