Does National Women’s History Month Need Official Congressional Support? (H. Res. 137)

What is H. Res. 137?

(Updated October 13, 2017)

This resolution throws down official Congressional support for the goals and ideals of National Women’s History Month.

The resolution text includes a brief historical summary of the growth in recognition of women’s history — From the 1970’s when women’s history was rarely taught as part of the K-12 curriculum, to Congress’ first resolution making Women’s History Week a national observance in 1981, to the 1987 expansion of the week to a month-long celebration.

Argument in favor

Everyone needs to recognize the pivotal role that women in U.S. have played in national and global history.

Argument opposed

March is already National Women’s History Month. Besides this is an empty gesture, doesn't Congress have more important things to spend time on?

Impact

All Americans, supporters of National Women’s History Month, those who were unaware of National Women’s History Month, Congress.

Cost of H. Res. 137

A CBO cost estimate is unavailable.

Additional Info

Of Note: In addition to a congressional resolution declaring March to be Women’s History Month, each President since 1980 has issued a proclamation accompanying Congress’ action.

Each year the National Women’s History Project declares an annual theme for Women’s History Month. The theme for 2015 is  emphasizing the opportunity “to weave women’s stories — individually and collectively — into the essential fabric of our nation’s history.”

Media:

• Sponsoring Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) Press Release
  
• National Women’s History Project (Context)
  
• The Library of Congress (Context)
  
• The Times Herald (Context)
  
• Blue Nation Review (Context)