County celebrates Women’s History Month

March 2, 2009

Summary

Recognizing ongoing contribution of women in King County

Story

The Metropolitan King County Council today joined the national celebration of the participation of women in all aspects of society by declaring the month of March “Women’s History Month” in King County.

The theme for the 2009 celebration is “Women Taking the Lead to Save Our Planet,” recognizing women involved in looking for solutions to the challenge of climate change.

“The proclamation is more than a celebration, it’s an opportunity” said Council Vice Chair Jane Hague. “This is an opportunity to look at the past contribution of women throughout the world, recognize and honor the work taking place right now, and encourage those coming behind us to remember that there are no limits to what they can do.”

“It is gratifying to see all the choices for women now,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “It’s exciting to realize that young women now grow up dreaming to be a doctor, the president of a corporation, or even a councilmember. I enjoy seeing what my daughters and granddaughters are doing and planning to do with career and family choices. Women have such varied experiences, such as being inventors, authors, scientists and astronauts, and in Washington state we have one of the highest ratios of women elected officials. This progress in equity allows everyone’s contributions and ideas to come together to make a balanced society.”

“As we recognize women throughout history, I also want to acknowledge the current role women have in King County government,” said Councilmember Julia Patterson, chair of the County Council in 2008. “Women’s perspectives add a crucial dimension to governance and policy making. It is notable that, here in King County, seven women have chaired the County Council, our current Sheriff and Elections Director are women, there are three female department heads and 32 female District Court and Superior Court judges.”

Congress recognized “Women’s History Week” in 1981 to celebrate the significant role of women in American history and contemporary society. In 1987, Congress expanded “Women’s History Week” to “Women History Month.”


Read the proclamation