For over 30 years, the United States has dedicated the month of March to honor the extraordinary accomplishments of women. From attending events and participating in online social campaigns to watching TV documentaries, there a several ways you can celebrate women’s contributions to the world.
[Related: Women of Power: My Mother’s Legacy]
Here are a few great stories about race, gender, culture and society.
Beauty Shop Politics: African American Women’s Activism in the Beauty Industry by Tiffany Gill
Tiffany M. Gill tells the stories of how black beauticians in the Jim Crow era used
their economic independence and access to a public community space as a platform for activism.
Freedom’s Daughters: The Unsung Heroines of the Civil Rights Movement from 1830 to 1970 by Lynne Olson
A great story featuring the historical moments throughout the civil rights movement. From the lunch counter sit-ins to the Freedom Rides and the Montgomery bus boycott the author gives you the overlooked story of the bold, fearless and resourceful women leaders of the civil rights movements.
Americanah by Chimamanda by Ngozi Adichie
A powerful story of race and gender centered on young Nigerian woman who leaves Africa for an American university where, for the first time, she is forced to deal with her identity as a black woman. From her difficult choices and challenges to her defeats and triumphs and eventual success as a writer, this engaging novel is a must read.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou’s classic autobiography takes you through her youth, growing up poor, past abuse and the troubled relationship with her mother. From dealing with her own pain she shows readers a path to healing, self-love and forgiveness.
Vintage Black Glamour by Nichelle Gainer
Features the photographic narratives of legendary icons Eartha Kitt, Lena Horne Aretha Franklin, Bricktop, Pearl Primus, Diana Sands and many more.
Dark Girls
A great book to keep on your coffee table. The photo essays feature portraits of dark-skinned African American women along with quotations from interviews about their appearance and how they feel about it.
Do you have any recommendations on books to read for Women’s History Month? Share your favorites in the comments section below.