March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the extraordinary contributions of women who have shaped our nation’s progress, prosperity, and moral integrity. First declared by the U.S. Congress in 1987, this month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, leadership, and innovation of women—particularly women of color—who have paved the way for generations to come.
Each March, The Council celebrates the remarkable contributions women make to our society, while spotlighting influential yet underrecognized historical figures.
While we commemorate these achievements, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead. Across the nation, efforts to undermine Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives threaten the very progress that generations of women—and all marginalized communities—have fought tirelessly to achieve. The shifting political climate makes it more critical than ever to reaffirm our commitment to equitable opportunities and economic empowerment. We must not forget that there are approximately 14 million women-owned businesses in the U.S. that generate $2.7 trillion dollars in revenue each year.
This year I encourage all of us to reflect on the influential women who have shaped our journeys and to discover the remarkable stories of the trailblazers we’ve featured here.
Audre Lorde, born in New York City to Caribbean immigrant parents, was able to rise up and emerge as a formidable poet, essayist, and activist who challenged several forms of oppression. While confronting racism, sexism, homophobia, and illness throughout her life, she remained committed to speaking truth to power and creating solidarity across differences. After publishing groundbreaking works like Sister Outsider and The Cancer Journals, she was honored with numerous awards. Lorde became an influential voice in feminist and civil rights movements, and in her famous 1977 speech at the National Women’s Conference, she emphasized the importance of intersectionality, declaring: “I have come to believe over and over again that what is most important to me must be spoken, made verbal and shared, even at the risk of having it bruised or misunderstood. For it is not difference which immobilizes us, but silence. And there are so many silences to be broken.”
Sojourner Truth, born into slavery as Isabella Baumfree in New York, transformed herself from an enslaved woman into a powerful abolitionist and women’s rights advocate during the turbulent period before the Civil War. After escaping slavery with her infant daughter in 1826, she successfully sued for her son’s freedom, becoming one of the first Black women to win such a case against a white man. Her famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech delivered at the 1851 Women’s Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio, eloquently challenged both racial and gender prejudices, declaring that women deserved equal rights to men. During the Civil War, she helped recruit Black troops for the Union Army while advocating for land redistribution to former slaves. She once proclaimed, “I feel safe in the midst of my enemies, for the truth is all powerful and will prevail,” a testament to her unwavering belief in justice that inspired generations of activists to follow.
Mae Mallory, a fearless civil rights activist and revolutionary, made history as a powerful advocate for Black liberation and self-defense in the face of racist violence. Known for her unwavering dedication to the freedom struggle, Mallory courageously fought against educational inequality in Harlem schools and emerged as a pivotal figure in her “Crusade for Justice.” Through her engagement with Robert F. Williams and the Freedom Now Party, in particular, she challenged mainstream civil rights techniques with her audacious position on armed resistance for Black safety. Mallory’s resilience was further demonstrated during her wrongful imprisonment and subsequent legal battle following the Monroe case, where she continued organizing despite severe persecution. Her legacy transcends her individual actions showcasing an unyielding commitment to Black freedom and community empowerment.
Grace Lee Boggs, a revered activist, philosopher, and author, left an indelible mark on the fight for civil rights, labor rights, and social justice. A visionary thinker and organizer, she dedicated over seven decades to advancing racial and economic equality, particularly in Detroit’s grassroots movements. Known for her profound belief in the power of community and self-determination, Boggs worked alongside laborers, activists, and marginalized communities to reimagine society through activism and education. Her legacy transcends activism alone, embodying a lifelong commitment to transformation, solidarity, and the pursuit of justice through both thought and action.
These are just a handful of the remarkable women who have fought to help minorities overcome oppressive obstacles. We honor and commend them for their courage and commitment to making the world a better place for future generations.
Let this Women’s History Month be more than a celebration—let it be a call to action. Together, we can honor the past, empower the present, and build a future where all women, regardless of background, have the opportunity to succeed.
At The Council, our goal is to help foster more opportunities for minority women-owned businesses to find success, regardless of the time of year. We invite you to check out our list of Council-certified women-owned businesses and reach out to those listed to create new business relationships.
With Gratitude and Best Wishes,
Terrence Clark