Bold Women Rock!

International Women's Day is March 8th, kicking off International Women's Week. Governor Josh Stein proclaims March Women's History Month 2026, along with Mayor's all over our county.

This month honors the contributions of bold women, trailblazers who could not sit on the sideline, who asked uncomfortable questions, who made room for others at their table, who sat at the tables where they were not invited; women who would not be dismissed.

Everyday there are woman who dare to dream, innovate and create pathways that did not previously exist.

By celebrating the contributions of woman in history, as well as women making an impact today- we absorb knowledge. Knowledge is powerful, which fuels others to dream and innovate.

Consider this:

• In 1777, all states passed a law that took away women's rights to vote.

• In 1855, a black woman, who was a slave, was declared property with no right to defend herself against her master's act of rape.

• By 1900, every state had passed legislation based on New York's Married Women's Property Act. This granted married women some control over their property and earnings.

• In 1947, the U.S. Supreme Court stated that women are equally qualified with men to serve on juries.

• On August 20, 1920 women were finally able to vote.

• Just over 100 years ago, only .2 % of the United States Congress consisted of women.

In the 80's, I asked my mom to add her name to checks and stop signing checks with Mrs., followed by my dad's name. I said, " You have a unique identity, you are not someone's property." She got new checks with her name- a bold move for a woman who believed women don't challenge men.

Today, the women in my life span numerous industries, include titans in leadership, innovators in science and education. Several woman in my life have been called to public service as a politician or serving in roles traditionally associated with men such as first responders, career athletes and military service.

Looking for stories of inspiring women?

• A few years ago, I captured some of their stories in our pearls series.

• In 2024, WRAL- captured these women- naming each as twelve women that changed North Carolina.

Bold women ROCK. They are steadfast, loyal friends that have moments of weakness, but their resilience and focused pursuits yield results. This month, I encourage you to gather some old and new friends for coffee or a glass of wine. Pay it forward, make some introductions and always, always raise your hand.