NEWSLETTER

JUNE 2024

Dear NWHA Community,

As we step into June, I am excited to share the latest updates and initiatives from the National Women's History Alliance. This month, our newsletter is filled with vibrant stories, important milestones, and inspiring celebrations that reflect our ongoing commitment to honoring women's history and advancing gender equality.

In this edition, you can look forward to celebrating Pride Month with us as we honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ women who have made significant impacts on our society. We will also spotlight some trailblazing women who have paved the way for future generations. Additionally, we are thrilled to update you on our Passing the Torch Campaign, an initiative aimed at securing the future of NWHA and continuing the vital work we do.

As we navigate this period of transition and renewal, I want to emphasize how crucial your support and involvement are. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for the National Women's History Alliance and ensuring that the stories of women continue to inspire and empower.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Let's move forward together with renewed energy and purpose.

Warmly,

Jill Zinckgraf, Interim Executive Director

As we celebrate Pride Month this June, it's essential to recognize and honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ women who have significantly impacted our society. Pride Month is not just a time to celebrate diversity and love; it's also an opportunity to reflect on the history and achievements of those who have fought for equality and justice.

Intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding the diverse experiences of LGBTQ+ women. Their contributions span across various fields, including activism, arts, sciences, and politics. Women like Marsha P. Johnson, a pivotal figure in the Stonewall Uprising, and Audre Lorde, an influential writer and civil rights activist, have paved the way for future generations through their courage and resilience.

At the National Women's History Alliance, we are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We believe that every woman's story, regardless of her sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves to be told and celebrated. By acknowledging the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality, we aim to foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

Join us in celebrating the incredible contributions of LGBTQ+ women this Pride Month and every month. Together, we can continue to build a world where every woman is honored, valued, and empowered.

MARSHA P JOHNSON

Marsha P. Johnson, born Malcolm Michaels Jr. on August 24, 1945, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, was a pioneering figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and a key player in the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. As a Black transgender woman and drag queen, Johnson was known for her vibrant personality and unwavering commitment to activism.

During the Stonewall Uprising, she became a symbol of resistance against police brutality and discrimination, helping to ignite the modern LGBTQ+ liberation movement. Johnson co-founded the Gay Liberation Front and the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) with Sylvia Rivera, providing crucial support and advocacy for homeless transgender youth. Her legacy continues to inspire generations, underscoring the importance of intersectionality in the ongoing struggle for equality and justice within the LGBTQ+ community.

Wikipedia contributors. (1945, August 24). Marsha P. Johnson. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marsha_P._Johnson.

AUDRE LORDE

Audre Lorde was a distinguished poet, feminist, and civil rights activist whose work profoundly impacted literature and social justice movements. Born on February 18, 1934, in New York City, Lorde's poetry and prose explored themes of identity, intersectionality, and resistance.

As a Black lesbian woman, she used her powerful voice to confront issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, and classism, challenging societal norms and advocating for marginalized communities. Lorde's notable works, including "The Black Unicorn" and "Sister Outsider," continue to inspire and empower readers worldwide. Her relentless pursuit of social justice and her belief in the transformative power of language have left an enduring legacy, making her an iconic figure in both literary and activist circles.

Lorde, A. (n.d.). Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved May 30, 2024, from https://www.britannica.com/biography/Audre-Lorde#/media/1/348057/237557

SYLVIA RAE RIVERA

Sylvia Rae Rivera was a pioneering American transgender activist born on July 2, 1951. A prominent figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, Rivera is best known for her role in the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, where she fought against police brutality and advocated for the rights of marginalized communities.

Co-founding both the Gay Liberation Front and the Gay Activists Alliance, Rivera dedicated her life to championing the rights of transgender and homeless people. Her relentless activism led to the establishment of the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), an organization providing support to homeless LGBTQ+ youth. Rivera's legacy endures as a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice and equality for all.

Shaff, V. (Photographer). (2000). Photograph of Sylvia Rae Rivera. Retrieved from http://srlp.org/srlp-office-re-open-srlp-10-still-happening/ and https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38099161

Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of their freedom, marking a pivotal moment in American history. The National Women's History Alliance honors Juneteenth by recognizing the resilience, achievements, and contributions of African American women who have played crucial roles in the fight for freedom and equality. Through educational initiatives, community events, and dedicated resources, NWHA highlights the significance of Juneteenth in the broader context of American history and reaffirms our commitment to promoting understanding, justice, and equity for all.

OPAL LEE

Opal Lee, affectionately known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," has dedicated her life to advocating for the recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday. Born in Marshall, Texas, in 1926, Lee began her activism in the civil rights movement and has continued her efforts to educate and commemorate African American history. Her determination and perseverance led to Juneteenth being declared a federal holiday in 2021. Opal Lee's tireless work ensures that the legacy of freedom and equality celebrated on Juneteenth will be remembered and honored for generations to come.

Opal's Walk 2 DC. "Opal Lee." Opal's Walk 2 DC, https://www.opalswalk2dc.com.

LOOKING AHEAD

Over the last few months, the National Women's History Alliance has been actively engaging with our community through various events and activities. We hosted a series of successful webinars that explored critical topics in women's history, drawing in over 600 participants, sparking meaningful conversations about our shared heritage and future directions.

Looking ahead, we are excited that we will soon announce our theme for 2025, which will guide our activities and focus for the coming year. Additionally, we are planning a special event/webinar to celebrate Women's Equality Day, featuring inspiring speakers and interactive discussions.

Stay tuned for more information on these exciting developments and how you can participate.

NOTABLE HERSTORICAL

facts in the month of June

June 4, 1919 - The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, was passed by the U.S. Congress.

June 9, 1949 - Georgia Neese Clark was nominated by President Harry S. Truman as the first woman Treasurer of the United States.

June 10, 1963 - The Equal Pay Act of 1963 was signed into law, prohibiting sex-based wage discrimination between men and women performing the same job in the same workplace.

June 5, 1968 - Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to the United States Congress, became the first Black woman to campaign for a major party's nomination for President of the United States.

Wikipedia contributors. (2024, May 30). Shirley Chisholm. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shirley_Chisholm

June 28, 1969 - The Stonewall Riots began, a pivotal event in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, prominently involving women like Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson.

June 18, 1983 - Sally Ride became the first American woman in space aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger.

June 30, 1966 - The National Organization for Women (NOW) was founded, aiming to take action to bring women into full participation in society.

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

WOMENS VETERAN'S DAY

JUNE 12th

Women Veterans Day, observed on June 12, honors the service and sacrifices of women in the military. This year marks the 76th anniversary of President Truman signing the Women's Armed Services Integration Act (Pub. L. 80–625, 62 Stat. 356, enacted June 12, 1948), which enabled women to serve as permanent, regular members of the armed forces in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and the newly formed Air Force.

Military Women's Memorial encourages women service members—active, retired, and veteran—as well as those who served in NOAA, Merchant Marines, the American Red Cross, USO, Nurse Cadet Corps during wartime, and other eligible women to register their service with the Military Women's Memorial in Washington, DC, at no cost. Take your rightful place among the unique Sisterhood of women who have served our nation, even before it was a nation during the Revolutionary War.

For more information and resources on how to commemorate this day, visit our NWHA. Join us in acknowledging and appreciating the courage and dedication of women veterans who have bravely served our nation.

Learn more at the Military Women's Memorial.

HONOR SOMEONE SPECIAL THIS FATHER'S DAY

Father's Day, observed on the third Sunday in June, was founded by Sonora Smart Dodd in Spokane, Washington, in 1910, inspired by her father, a Civil War veteran and single parent who raised six children.

The day honors the dedication and sacrifices of fathers and father figures. As we celebrate this special occasion, consider supporting the National Women's History Alliance by purchasing a card in honor of a father, grandfather, or any special man in your life.

Your contribution will help us continue our mission of promoting women's history and recognizing the vital roles men have played in supporting gender equality.

Visit our website to make a donation and order your card today.

WE NEED YOU!

We invite all members to actively participate in our initiatives. Whether you have time to volunteer, wish to attend our events, or can contribute financially, your involvement is crucial to our success.

VISIT US for more information on how you can make a difference.

Together, we can continue to honor the past, celebrate the present, and shape the future of women's history.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the National Women's History Alliance.