In a few days the month of March that made its entrance like a lion will end on a very pleasant and calm note. No matter how the month begins or ends it can be compared to the turbulence, determination and persistence applied to the stormy beginning of Women’s History Month which is held yearly during the month of March.

The Women’s movement had its beginning with Susan B. Anthony and the Suffragettes whose priority was winning the right to vote in national and local elections achieving that goal in 1920. The depression of the 1930s and the Second World War put women’s rights on the back burner. With interest in Women’s Liberation in 1950 and 1960 women’s issues and history once again bloomed.

In 1970 schools and universities began including the field of women’ history and studies in their curriculums with many schools celebrating a “Women’s History Week.” The response was so successful that in 1981, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Ut) and Rep. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) co-sponsored the first Joint Congressional Resolution proclaiming a “Women’s History Week.”

The National Women’s History Project in 1987 requested Congress to expand the week to a month. Since then the United States Congress has issued a resolution in support. The President of the United States each year issues a proclamation designating the month of March as Women’s History Month.

Yearly a theme is selected and approximately ten to 15 women are selected to be honored during this prestigious month. The theme selected for the year 2009 is “Women Taking the Lead to Save Our Planet.”

This year more than 100 women have been named honorees for their courage and pioneering efforts in helping to save our planet. Their achievements and accomplishments span three centuries and seven generations. They are scientists, engineers, business leaders, writers, filmmakers, conservationist, teachers, community organizers, religious or workplace leaders and others whose lives show exceptional vision and leadership to preserve the earth.

Included on this notable list is Hilary Rodham Clinton recognized as a United States Senator who worked to secure federal legislation to protect the environment as a member of the Fisheries, Wildlife and Water Subcommittee and co-sponsored the Petroleum Consumer Price Gouging Protection Act.

Perhaps you will recall Julia Butterfly Hill, a 23 year old woman who in 1971 climbed into a 180 ft. redwood tree to prevent loggers from cutting it down. She spent two years living on the tree a nonviolent action in defense of the forest that was being threatened by destruction.

Dr. Sally Ride became the first American woman in space on the shuttle Challenger in 1983. In 1984, she spent an eight day mission on the Challenger accumulating mo9re than 343 hours in space flight. Her recent enterprise is “Sally Ride Science” an organization founded to provide support for all girls in upper elementary and middle schools who are interested in science, math and technology.

It is most appropriate to congratulate Peggy Burke, community organizer and recipient of the Sunday Dispatch Person of the Year Award for 2009, and to recognize her with Women History Month Honorees. Peggy was selected for this award for her outstanding dedication, commitment and leadership skills as coordinator of the Pittston Food Bank performed with a genuine love and caring attitude.

The Food Bank is located at the former Seton Catholic High School and is conducted through St. John the Evangelist Parish Community.

Peggy, in her acceptance speech, credited and accepted the award with all the countless volunteers who generously give of their time and efforts to the service programs offered through St. John the Evangelist Parish Community. Other service include a free health clinic, a bereavement program, knitting prayer shawls, Children’s Clothes Closet furnishing slightly used clothing for children, and an adult closet as well.

A sincere thank you to Mrs. Peggy Burke, Msgr. John Bendik, and all the volunteer members of St. John the Evangelist Parish Community for their shining example of sharing their love and concern to the people of Greater Pittston. You are doing God’s work.

As the month of March is drawing to an end, I felt a responsibility to bring to light and to remind women of the great event that occurs and is celebrated throughout the United States, “Women’s History Month.”

It has not been an easy journey getting to this point of recognition and prominence, however, realizing the great sacrifices made along the way by strong and determined women throughout our history it is a proud feeling.

My generation of women is part of that proud history as we taught our daughters the importance of education, free thinking and independence. With doors that are opening easier to women, I sincerely hope that the upcoming generations never forget the struggle but take up the quest for women’s equality in the workplace.

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