With a name like “Women’s History Month,” it’s easy to understand the sentiment behind what we celebrate during the month of March. However, to truly honor this time, we must recognize why we celebrate. 

When signing the proclamation of Women’s History Month in 1987, President Jimmy Carter explained, “…men and women have worked together to build this nation. Too often the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But, the achievements, leadership, courage, strength, and love of the women who built America [were] as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well.”

To shine a light on the many accomplishments of women, each year the National Women’s History Alliance creates a campaign, centered around a national theme. This year, the theme selected was Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope. Not only was this idea chosen to acknowledge and appreciate the hard-work caregivers and frontline workers have delivered throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to honor those who have provided healing and hope throughout history. 

At UAB, we have an awe-inspiring number of women who provide care and encouragement to those in need. These women are making history and we want to share their stories. 

Heersink School of Medicine Office for Diversity and Inclusion has partnered with various departments throughout the school to spotlight a diverse range of perspectives over the course of the next five weeks. 

Additionally, we will be hosting a special Women in Medicine & Science lecture featuring Molly Carnes. During this one-hour session, on March 16 at noon, she will present Bias is a Habit That Can Be Broken.

We are excited at what this month has in store and we look forward to celebrating the women heroes we have here at UAB. 

Sincerely, 
Mona Fouad, M.D., MPH