Celebrating Women’s History Month: Famous Women in History for Kids, Ways to Honor Women Year-Round

Maya Angelou, Dolores Huerta, Anna Jo Garcia Haynes, Greta Thunberg, Susan B. Anthony, Selena, Haifa al-Habibi, Madam C.J. Walker, Eleanor Roosevelt, Malala Yousafzai, Simone Biles. What do they all have in common? These famous women in history for kids and adults alike have used their courage, creativity, and influence to pave the way for generations of female leaders to come. Given the plethora of inspirational women of yesterday and today, the National Women’s History Alliance theme for Women’s History Month this March is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.”

Did you know that Women’s History Month in the United States has origins back to the early 1800s? However, it wasn’t until 1978 when “Women’s History Week” was first celebrated in Santa Rosa, California. Yet, it’s only been in the last 30 years that every president has issued an official proclamation designating March as Women’s History Month. 

Denver Preschool Program (DPP) recognizes and appreciates the unique and valuable contributions of women every day. Our team shares their thoughts about female educators, leaders, changemakers, and famous women in history for kids, and offers a few words of encouragement for future generations. 

Which Women Inspire You and Why?

• Elsa Holguín, President and CEO: “Anna Jo Garcia Haynes has been a pivotal leader in Denver’s early childhood care and education for more than 50 years. She is the founder of Mile High Early Learning, brought the Head Start program to Denver, and co-founded the Colorado Children’s Campaign and the Women’s Foundation of Colorado. She also is a DPP board member emeritus. Learn more about Anna Jo in her I Am Denver video. 
• Matt Jordan, CFO/COO: “Single mothers–It’s the hardest and most important job in the world. Millions of people like me benefit from their love, sacrifice, and support.” 
• Cristal Cisneros, Senior Director of Evaluation and Impact: “All the women in my family, especially my grandmother who was the matriarch for my mom’s side of the family. I think they influenced all the women in my family to be resilient and bold and unapologetic.” 
• Chris Miller, Vice President of Programs: “Greta Thunberg, for her activism against climate change and promoting the imperative to shift to renewable energy. Malala Yousafzai, for advocating for her right to educational opportunities. Their courage to work for social justice is very inspiring.” 
• Nayely Avila, Program Manager: “Maya Angelou, Dolores Huerta, Selena, and Simone Biles.” 
• Irene Bonham, Vice President of Communications: “I come from a long line of female educators and education advocates. My mother was a special education teacher in a middle school for 35 years. My grandmother (my mom’s mom) was also an educator.  My mother and grandmother exemplified what it means to be an advocate, a mentor, and a source of unwavering support for students who needed it most. Their work continues to inspire me, reinforcing my belief that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive—no matter the obstacles they face.” 
• Alexis Walker, Operations Manager: “Madam C.J. Walker, who was originally named Sarah Breedlove, was an entrepreneur who became the first female self-made millionaire in the U.S. after building a company selling specialized hair and beauty products for African Americans. She was also an active philanthropist who supported the YMCA and the NAACP. And Haifa al-Habibi, who in 2016, five years after women in Saudi Arabia were  given the right to vote, became the country’s first female political candidate. With a stance on education, the architect, newspaper columnist and professor campaigned with her face uncovered and, in a country where women usually favor black, she often wore bright colors. Her confidence is so admirable!” 

What Words of Encouragement Do You Have for the Next Generation of Women Leaders? 

• Nayely: “Dream big, be kind, and never stop believing in yourself! You are strong, smart, and capable of anything you set your heart to.”  
• Irene: “To the next generation of young girls just beginning their educational journey: You are strong, capable, and full of potential. Ask questions, explore boldly, and never be afraid to use your voice. The world needs your ideas, your kindness, and your leadership. As you grow, know that there are people—teachers, families, and entire communities—who believe in you and will cheer you on every step of the way. Dream big, work hard, and always lift others up with you. The future is yours to shape!” 
• Cristal: “Be unapologetically you!” 
• Alexis: “Always trust your gut!”
• Elsa: “Being different is one of the most beautiful things. Bringing the best of us into this world also means that we bring all of us and our differences is what makes us the uniquely best!!” 

Ways to Honor Women Anytime

While Women’s History Month is a great time to celebrate women, honoring women and learning about women’s history should take place anytime. From documentaries to podcasts, there are a range of mediums to learn about leading women and be inspired to take action. Check out these suggestions: 

• Engage in one or many of the 32 Activities To Celebrate Women’s History Month this March and throughout the year. 
• Support women-owned businesses. Check out this list of downtown Denver activities and places that are led or inspired by women. 
• Learn and share information about women leaders, including those who helped shape the early care and education landscape.  The Colorado Chamber of Commerce is also featuring profiles on inspirational business leaders, executives, and job creators this month. And the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame highlights leading women who have paved the way for others throughout Colorado. 
• Embark on a self-guided tour of Denver Public Art pieces for women’s history month (or anytime!). The Center for Colorado Women’s History is a great year-round way to learn more about Colorado women (admission is free for children ages 18 and under).  
• Tell someone who inspires you what they mean to you. Text messages, calls, emails, and hand-written notes can all be powerful ways to support women. 

So as you celebrate Women’s History Month this March and throughout the year, DPP President and CEO Elsa Holguín shares, “Courage, dear heart!” a quote that comes from C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. Holguín adds, “This is the time when courage is needed and women do it with love, magic, and strength. Let’s bring it forward this month and always for all of us.”