6 Reasons Women Deserve to be Celebrated Beyond Women’s History Month
Everyday in my studio we honor women and all the facets of who they are. And the world honors women on International Women’s Day, marked on March 8th, and our nation marks the whole month of March to honor our mark in history. But allow me to take this opportune moment to declare that women deserve continuous celebration, not just on a single day or month. Of course, gratitude extends to those who championed for our rights, those who fought tirelessly to propel us across diverse fields, and those today who are still persevering toward equality. I thank these women for their dedication, courage, and tenacity to use their voices to enhance our world. But I also fiercely admire every woman who wakes up to continue creating the life of their dreams. Every woman who proudly takes a stand to fight for what they deserve, what they believe in, and what they want. This blog, therefore, unfolds why women deserve celebration not just on International Women’s Day or National Women’s History Month (March) but every single day. So let’s go to school about it, shall we.
6 Reasons Women Deserve to be Celebrated in March for Women’s History Month and International Women's Day 2024
1. Historic Trailblazers of Change
Throughout history, women have shattered glass ceilings, challenged societal norms, and pioneered change in various fields. From the suffragette movement to contemporary activism, women have been at the forefront of revolutions, advocating for equality, justice, and progress. Celebrating women acknowledges their indomitable spirit and honors their invaluable role in shaping a more inclusive and equitable world. Many are familiar with iconic figures like Marie Curie, who became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize for her groundbreaking research on radioactivity, Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, or Rosa Parks, who played a pivotal role in the civil right's movement. But, history unveils countless more trailblazers. For example, did you know that over 10,000 women code breakers accelerated World War II's end by two years? Or Ida B. Wells, who fearlessly exposed lynching, advocating for civil rights and women's suffrage. Perhaps Ada Lovelace, the woman who pioneered computer programming and Bessie Coleman who soared as the first African American woman pilot. Their resilience shattered gender norms, strengthened equality, and paved the way for our diverse roles in STEM and beyond. So, let's celebrate these heroes for the transformative legacy they've given us. Without their remarkable feats, our present opportunities wouldn't be possible.
2. Spread Awareness
While this month celebrates historical and ongoing achievements, it underscores the need for continued efforts. Despite significant strides, challenges persist, reminding us of the importance for continuous action because gender equality is a human rights challenge. For instance, patriarchal perceptions still linger, undermining women's qualifications and contributions. This is apparent in alarming UN statistics that predict without prompt action, over 342 million women and girls will be in poverty by 2030. Additionally, around 736 million women worldwide, nearly one in three, have encountered physical and/or sexual violence. This statistic, excluding instances of harassment and more growing research, emphasizes the urgency to enhance awareness, education, and resources around gender equality. By doing so, we can continue to aim for a more equitable and secure global environment.
In short, by addressing these biases and honoring women's diversity we foster an environment of inclusion where different voices are heard, valued, and respected. By championing diversity, women pave the way for more equitable and representative societies, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
3. Meaningful Contributions
Despite the ongoing challenges, women are unstoppable forces that continue to deliver meaningful contributions every day, and acknowledging their resilience and positive impact is not only empowering but also serves as inspiration. Yet beyond how they’re still raising the bar in various fields, many play multifaceted roles that deserve continuous respect. Leaders, mothers, students, entrepreneurs, and every woman who continues to propel forward despite a world where patriarchy dominates is a hero. No matter what you’ve accomplished or have yet to accomplish, your mere existence is a gift. Your ability to take care of your children, go to work, face the effects of the ongoing fight for gender equality, follow your dreams and your strength to live your life merits celebration in itself. I applaud you and all that you embody.
4. Honor in All Stages of Life
The month of March offers a unique opportunity to honor the multifaceted stages of our lives. When was the last time you acknowledged your accomplishments or the very core of who you are? Have you ever considered doing that with a photoshoot? Often, we limit photoshoots to milestones like graduation, pregnancy, or weddings, dismissing the beauty in every transformative moment of our lives. From the teenage years to womanhood, each phase deserves a portfolio that reflects your evolving beauty, power, and strength. Consider honoring your relationships and learning why a mother-daughter photoshoot signifies more than a photo. Or commemorate your entrepreneurship or career with a personal branding shoot showcasing that nothing will stop you from achieving what you deserve. Documenting every stage of our lives as women is a testament that solidifies the love, respect, and admiration we have for ourselves. And it also reminds us that we’re undeniably worth celebrating every day!
5. Self-Empowerment
Empowered women empower women. What I love most about the world coming together to celebrate women is that it fosters a culture of empowerment and unity, reinforcing the idea that every woman's journey and achievements are valuable and worthy of recognition. But I’ve also discovered, behind the lens and through my own journey, that it’s not always easy to be your own cheerleader: to see yourself as others see you. Yet this month and beyond reminds us to pause, self-reflect, prioritize self-care, and realign ourselves with the life we truly deserve. When you learn how to value yourself as a woman and how to tap into your power and personal revolution, the world opens.
It unveils opportunities from once daunting challenges, teaches self-love amidst setbacks, and reaffirms your influential role in the ongoing female narrative. My favorite way to achieve this is through our most popular session: The combo portrait experience, or by stripping the layers of your inner critic and booking a boudoir session to rediscover how sexy you are. Both create what I call “the ripple effect” and how witnessing yourself authentically and beautifully through a single photograph can empower every facet of your life.
6. It’s a Call-to-Action
Continuously celebrating women contributes to the advancement of gender equality. By acknowledging women's accomplishments daily, we send a powerful message to young girls that they possess the undeniable capability to achieve anything. This ongoing celebration dismantles stereotypes, challenges traditional gender roles, and fosters an inclusive world where women are genuinely valued and respected. It marks a call to action that everyone must come together to support and champion causes that empower us to move forward, achieve what we want, and create the life we’re called to live.
Final Thoughts
I could effortlessly compile a list of 101 reasons why women merit celebration every single day not just on International Women’s Day 2024 or only in March which is Women’s History month. Our contributions, spanning professional, personal, and global spheres, form an infinite catalog. The ways we navigate life's stages, consistently show up for loved ones, and resiliently pursue our dreams amid ongoing challenges showcase our remarkable essence. Despite these achievements, we often overlook our journey and the beautiful moments that shape who we are. It's time to honor our existence with a tangible reminder of the power of our beauty and strength and the enduring courage within. Your personalized photo shoot, a day tailored to embody your remarkability, offers an opportunity to release, reconnect to yourself, and recognize the gorgeous, fierce, intelligent, and compassionate woman you are. At Judith Hill Photography, our focus is on celebrating you and your evolving phases as you move forward. Your day promises a holistic experience of self-care and self-empowerment, featuring professional hair and makeup, multiple outfit changes and a fully guided photoshoot to help you embrace who you are through self actualization. Allow me to show you how amazing you are. Ready to have this uplifting experience? Book your personalized photoshoot today and let your radiance shine!