March is here, and with it comes the annual celebration of Women’s History Month—a time to honor the achievements, struggles, and contributions of women throughout history. For Del Mar locals, this is your chance to dive into the stories of trailblazers, support modern-day changemakers, and celebrate the women who’ve shaped our world. Let’s make this month one for the history books (pun intended).
Why March? A Quick History Lesson
Before we jump into how to celebrate Women’s History Month in Del Mar, let’s take a quick stroll down memory lane. Back in 1978, Sonoma County kicked things off with a modest “Women’s History Week” centered around March 8—International Women’s Day. What started as classroom presentations and essay contests quickly snowballed into a national movement. By 1987, Congress officially declared March as Women’s History Month. So yes, you can thank California for taking charge of this one!
Del Mar’s Game Plan: How to Celebrate Like a Local
Forget cookie-cutter celebrations—Del Mar deserves something special. Here are some ideas to make Women’s History Month unforgettable:
1. Walk It Out
Join a Walk for Women event this March and take your steps with purpose. Whether you’re strolling through Powerhouse Park or tackling Torrey Pines State Reserve, walking is a great way to honor women while soaking up Del Mar’s stunning views. Bonus points if you share your story online using #WhyIWalk.
2. Host a Celebration at Home
Why not throw a party that packs meaning? Gather your friends for an empowering evening featuring:
- Movies directed by women or with strong female leads (think Hidden Figures or Little Women).
- A playlist of female artists that spans genres—because Beyoncé and Dolly Parton both deserve airtime.
- A mini awards ceremony celebrating the resilience and accomplishments of your gal pals.
Decorate with quotes from icons like Maya Angelou or Frida Kahlo, and voila—you’ve got yourself an evening of inspiration!
3. Support Local Women-Owned Businesses
Del Mar is home to many talented women entrepreneurs. Whether it’s grabbing coffee from a woman-owned café or shopping at boutiques run by female creators, every dollar spent is a vote for equality.
4. Take It to Social Media
Spread awareness without leaving your couch! Share inspiring quotes, stories about historical trailblazers, or even highlight local women making waves in Del Mar today. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-timed Instagram post—it might just inspire someone else to join the celebration.
Trailblazers Who Paved the Way
Women’s History Month isn’t just about celebrating—it’s also about learning. Here are just a few historical heavyweights whose stories deserve your attention:
- Susan B. Anthony & Elizabeth Cady Stanton: The dynamic duo behind the suffrage movement that gave women the right to vote.
- Harriet Tubman: Freedom fighter extraordinaire who led enslaved people to safety via the Underground Railroad.
- Abigail Adams: The First Lady who famously urged her husband to “remember the ladies” when drafting laws for America’s future.
- Alice Paul: A key figure in securing women’s voting rights through her tireless activism for the 19th Amendment.
Their legacies remind us that progress isn’t handed out—it’s fought for.
Modern Issues That Need Your Attention
While Women’s History Month celebrates progress, it also shines a light on work still left undone:
- The gender pay gap persists—women earn about 82 cents for every dollar men make in the U.S., and it gets worse for women of color.
- Leadership roles remain male-dominated; women are still underrepresented in politics and STEM fields.
- Domestic violence, harassment, and trafficking continue to plague communities worldwide—including here in California.
The good news? Small actions can lead to big changes. Whether it’s mentoring young girls or advocating for workplace equality, everyone has a role to play in leveling the playing field.
Get Involved Locally
Del Mar may be small, but its community spirit is mighty! Here are some ways you can get involved this month:
- Volunteer with organizations supporting women and girls—whether it’s mentoring programs or shelters for survivors of domestic violence.
- Attend local events celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8 or other Women’s History Month activities nearby (check out San Diego’s calendar too!).
- Encourage friends to join groups like Soroptimist International—a global organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls through education and empowerment.
Celebrate Loudly
Women’s History Month isn’t just about looking back—it’s about looking forward too. So whether you’re walking along Del Mar Beach in solidarity or hosting an empowering dinner party at home, make sure your celebrations are as bold as the women we’re honoring this month!
Sources: nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org, blog.soroptimist.org, history.com
Header Image Source: Becca Tapert on Unsplash
