INFLUENTIAL WOMEN
Written By Lulu Mecham
Although during the month our attention is usually on brackets or green clovers, I think it’s important to look back in history and commemorate the women and movements that are responsible for the progression women have been able to experience.
During March, we observed Women’s History Month. Although during the month our attention is usually on brackets or green clovers, I think it’s important to look back in history and commemorate the women and movements that are responsible for the progression women have been able to experience. While there are more important historical figures than I can count, I’d like to highlight a few inspiring women and their stories. Whether they were pioneers in their field, or advocates for change, I know learning about these women fills me with pride for our progress and excitement for the future.
Soraya Jimenez(1977-2013)
Jimenez was a Mexican weightlifter and Olympian who made history at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. She became the first Mexican woman to win a gold medal in the history of the Olympic Games, achieving this in the weightlifting event. Jimenez’s remarkable accomplishment not only marked a personal triumph but also inspired a generation of athletes in Mexico. Tragically, she passed away in 2013 at the age of 35.
Alice Ball(1892-1916)
Hopper was a pioneering computer scientist and US Navy Rear Admiral. Renowned for her significant contributions to computer programming, she played a crucial role in the development of early programming languages. Her career spanned several decades during which she advocated for the use of high-level programming languages and contributed to the development of UNIVAC I, one of the earliest computers. Her innovative mindset and leadership have left and enduring impact on the field of computer science.
Patsy Mink(1927-2002)
Mink was an American politician and trailblazer. She served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1965 to 1977 and then again from 1990 until her passing in 2002. Mink was the first woman of color and the first Asian American woman elected to congress. A strong advocate for civil rights and education, she co-authored the Title IX Amendment of the Higher Education Act, promoting gender equity in educational institutions. Mink’s legacy extends as a champion of diversity, equality, and progressive policies.
Gabriela Mistral(1889-1957)
Mistral was a Chilean poet, educator, and
diplomat. She was the first Latin American
woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, awarded in 1945. Mistral’s poetry, characterized
by its deep emotional and humanitarian themes,
gained international acclaim. As an educator, she
implemented progressive educational reforms in
Chile, emphasizing the importance of education for
children. She also served as a cultural ambassador,
representing Chile in various diplomatic roles. Her
literary contributions and advocacy for education
have solidified her as a revered figure in both
literature and social reform.
There are so many more women and figures who accomplished inspiring feats, fought for change, or acted as beacons of hope...
Again, there are so many more women and figures who accomplished inspiring feats, fought for change, or acted as beacons of hope, but these five were a few who stuck out to me this year. I encourage you to learn more about women’s history, whether that be an inspiring ancestor of yours, a suffragette, or a trailblazer in your field— there’s always more to learn and more progress to be made.