Governor Abbott Proclaims March 2023 As Women’s History Month
At the heart of the American worldview lies the notion that all are created equal, and we therefore believe that each of us—without regard to sex—holds the power to change the world for the better. Indeed, the American spirit of rugged individualism manifests itself in both sexes. Countless women have embodied the vision, tenacity, and ingenuity that have long set our people apart, building the strongest, freest, most prosperous society mankind has ever known. Holding places of prominence in every aspect of public life, women have made significant contributions to our history for generations.
From our earliest days, women have played crucial roles in the epic saga of Texas and her people. During the Battle of the Alamo, Susanna Dickinson was one of few Anglo survivors, and she witnessed firsthand the unflinching heroism of her Texian compatriots—as well as the immortal spirit of Texas that arose from the carnage. Santa Anna spared her life in hopes that the fateful news she brought with her would extinguish hope among the revolutionaries, but by giving account of the martyrs of the Alamo, she strengthened the resolve of General Houston’s troops and removed all doubt that our people had passed the point of no return. At the Battle of San Jacinto, Emily West—a figure who nowadays belongs as much to legend as to history—is believed to have influenced the climactic conflict. Some historians regard her as a Texian spy, and others believe she may have played a decisive role in the battle by keeping Santa Anna preoccupied as the Texans advanced. Whether that role was factual or fictitious, she gave rise to the Yellow Rose of Texas symbolism, which represents the strength, resilience, and beauty of Texas women to this day.
In subsequent generations, women continued to leave their mark upon the annals of Texas history. For instance, Miriam “Ma” Ferguson was elected governor of Texas a mere four years after the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment. At the height of the Watergate scandal, Texas Congresswoman Barbara Jordan put to words the nation’s indignation, and her televised speech to the House Judiciary Committee remains a touchstone of twentieth century American rhetoric. Governor Ann Richards shed light on addiction recovery, and her life story no doubt provided a ray of hope to many. Lady Bird Johnson and Laura Bush brought Texas’ warmth and charm to the White House as First Lady, and they provided support and reassurance to their husbands, who led our nation through the unprecedented challenges of their respective eras.
Each year, a month is set aside to celebrate the many important women who have shaped the history of our state and nation and to encourage the young women of today who will, in due time, follow in the footsteps of their formidable female forebears.
At this time, I encourage all Texans to familiarize themselves with prominent women of the past and to acknowledge their important contributions to our society. As we work together to build upon past successes and secure the future of the Lone Star State, both men and women have key roles to play.
Therefore, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim March 2023 to be Women’s History Month in Texas and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.
In official recognition whereof, I hereby affix my signature this 1st day of March, 2023.
GREG ABBOTT
Governor of Texas