Governor Abbott Proclaims March 2024 As Women’s History Month
Throughout history, women have changed the world through entrepreneurship, politics, education, and philanthropy. This is equally true of Texas women, who have made their influence felt from our earliest settlers to today.
Women such as Jane Long, who hosted William Travis and Stephen F. Austin at her prosperous boarding house and Angelina Eberly, who protected the irreplaceable state archives, served Texas from her earliest days. Clara Driscoll and Adina de Zavala saved the Alamo from destruction in the early 20th century, preserving the iconic monument of Texas independence for generations to come. Entrepreneurs Bette Graham and Mary Kay Ash changed the face of business forever and cemented their place as Texas economic titans. Politicians such as Oveta Culp Hobby, Ann Richards, Barbara Jordan, Liz Carpenter, and Sarah T. Hughes have inspired Texas women to answer the call of public service. Philanthropist Ima Hogg supported the arts and historical preservation. Katherine Stinson Otero became the first commissioned female airmail pilot, shattering barriers and breaking records in aviation.
International Women’s Day was first celebrated in 1911 to recognize the contributions women have made in our society. President Carter issued a proclamation in 1980 declaring the first week of March to be National Women’s History Week. Congress officially designated the month of March as Women’s History Month in 1987 at the urging of the National Women’s History Project, and since 1988, every March has been declared Women’s History Month by the president of the United States.
The women of our state and nation have risked their lives, fortunes, and reputations to build upon the legacy of the past. Their determination, ingenuity, and spirit are an inheritance that will be treasured as we continue to build a prosperous future for Texas and the United States.
At this time, I encourage all Texans to learn more about the history and accomplishments of women as we follow their example and inspire the next generation of Texas women.
Therefore, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim March 2024 to be Women's History Month
in Texas and urge all Texans to observe the occasion with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed my signature this the 29th day of February, 2024.
Greg Abbott
Governor of Texas