March is Women's History Month — an opportunity to celebrate the contributions women have made throughout history in social justice, healthcare, science, art, public service, sports, and every field of human endeavor. As you move through this season, we invite you to create space to reflect on the women who have used their skills and hearts to advocate for the mental health and well-being of all people.
Women Doing Courageous Work Right Now
Jaime Black — Métis artist raising awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls through her public art installation, The REDress Project. Since 2009, Black's work has been displayed throughout North America, including the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. "I felt like we all know someone who has experienced violence in her life," she has said. "I had to do something to address that."
UN Women + Center for American Women and Politics — Women in public service create and implement policies that support the social and healthcare needs of women everywhere. Research shows that women make government more transparent, inclusive, and accessible. Women in leadership champion issues of gender equality, parental leave, childcare, pensions, and electoral reform.
Naomi Osaka, Simone Biles, and Simone Manuel — Courageous professional athletes who have modeled that self-worth is not based on achievement, and that mental health and well-being are more valuable than medals. These three women have used their platforms to normalize self-care and normalize seeking support — blazing a trail for athletes at every level.
Carry It Forward
The women described above are just a few of the countless remarkable ones who help improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities. As you move through the world this month, consider one of these:
- Choose one woman referenced here and learn more about her story. Ask yourself: What am I drawn to? What connects to my own experience?
- Recall a woman in your life who has supported your mental health. Send her a text, a card, or a call of gratitude this month.
- Share this post with a woman you want to celebrate.
Written by Sara Thane Milam, LCSW, Mamaya Health therapist.
At Mamaya Health, we believe in the healing and courageous work of women — including the work of getting support for yourself. Connect with a Mamaya therapist →
