In 1980, Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation in recognition of women’s history; the observance was one week long. In 1987, Congress passed a law authorizing the President to designate the month of March as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, every U.S. president has issued an annual proclamation in the month of March. During Women’s History Month, we honor the countless contributions of women to American history.
The theme for 2026 is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” The National Women’s History Alliance (NAWHA) selected this theme " to expand our understanding of sustainability beyond just environmental concerns. It encompasses financial sustainability, community resilience, leadership succession, and intergenerational equity." Please visit the NAWHA website for more information and resources at https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/womens-history-theme-2026/