By Jennifer Jahn
NKyTribune staff writer
The observance of Women’s History commenced as a week-long celebration in Santa Rosa, California, in 1978. President Jimmy Carter officially established the week through a Presidential Proclamation in 1980. This custom persisted until 1987, at which point Congress designated March as Women’s History Month via Public Law 100-9. Since 1995, presidents have issued an annual proclamation commemorating Women’s History Month.
President Trump’s 2026 proclamation, issued March 3, states: “This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the extraordinary American women of our past and the titans of the present who have strengthened our families, enriched our culture, defended our values, pioneered our industries, and shaped our Nation’s glorious future.”
Across the Commonwealth, organizations are marking the month with events that highlight Kentucky women’s contributions, past and present. If you’re interested in our state’s history and the women who helped to shape it, be sure to check these out. Please contact the venues for up-to-date details.
• Women’s Health Fair – March 7, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Cincinnati Downtown Main Library. Registration is not required.
• Kentucky Women In Business 2026 Summit – “Rising Above, Building Beyond” – March 17, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center, Lexington. Registration is required.
• Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky – nominations are open until March 13. The awards dinner will be held on June 4, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Turfway Park Racing & Gaming, Florence. Registration is required.
• Reviving Lost Voices: Women in Early America with Dr. Paul Tenkotte – March 26, 6-7 p.m., Kenton County Public Library, Covington Branch. Registration is required.
• Kentucky Humanities – highlighting fascinating women in Kentucky history throughout the month of March on their Facebook page.
• Women-Owned Business Support – throughout March, residents are encouraged to support local women-owned businesses in Northern Kentucky. A quick Google search can give you an entire map, but here are a few to get you started: Handzy Shop + Studio (Covington), Unataza Coffee (Dayton), Fit Philosophie (Fort Thomas), The Hive (Erlanger), The Floral Café (Williamstown), and Bradley’s Boutique & Haberdashery (Maysville).
Women’s History Month is more than a calendar designation; it is an opportunity to recognize the perseverance, leadership, and innovation of women who have shaped our communities, our state, and our country. From supporting local women-owned businesses to attending educational programs and honoring today’s leaders, there are countless ways to participate.
This March, take time to learn, celebrate, and invest in the women whose work continues to strengthen Kentucky’s future.