Top Women's History Month Event Ideas

March is around the corner, and if you're tasked with organising an event for Women's History Month, where do you start? This guide cuts through the noise to bring you actionable women's history month event ideas that honour achievements, spark conversations, and deepen respect for women's roles in our past, present, and future. Expect a range of ideas from casual meet-ups to educational workshops that are perfect for any setting.

Key Takeaways

• Women's History Month is a time to honour women's past achievements while empowering and inspiring future generations, often marked by celebratory events such as those organised by Twist Events to uplift women in industries like wine and distilling.
• Creative activities during Women's History Month encourage engagement with women's history and recognition of their contributions, utilising storytelling, book clubs, and artistic events to inspire and educate people about the impact of women in society.
• Promoting gender equality in the workplace is a year-round objective, supported by diversity and inclusion training and the implementation of resources to aid in the advancement and support of female employees, fostering a culture that values women's contributions.

Empowering Women's History Month Events

Women's History Month serves a dual purpose: it honours the past while empowering the present and inspiring future generations. Companies, organisations, and individuals around the world host events and initiatives during this month to celebrate women's achievements and advocate for gender equality, including International Women's Day. The National Women's History Alliance plays a significant role in promoting these efforts. Women's History Month began with one of the key events that paved the way for its establishment: Women's History Week, which later evolved into National Women's History Week.

Take Twist Events as an example, they curate a variety of empowering events designed to celebrate and uplift women. Such events not only enhance the sense of value and appreciation among the female workforce but also contribute to the overall advancement of companies and organisations.

Twist Events: Women in Wine Series

One such initiative by Twist Events is the Women in Wine€ series. This immersive experience offers a platform for female vintners to share their passions, tackle obstacles, and make progress in sustainability within the wine industry. Attendees have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines curated by these influential women, celebrating their achievements and contributions to the industry.

The Women in Wine series transcends a typical tasting event by celebrating the trailblazing amazing women, including valiant women, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Meet the Makers: Women in Distilling

Women have made significant strides not only in the wine industry but also in the distilling sector. Twist Events' Meet the Makers: Women in Distilling offers a stage for these talented women. These events provide a unique platform that celebrates their experiences and achievements, helping to support their professional growth.

Attendees can enjoy complimentary tastings, masterclasses, and entertainment, all while engaging with and learning from the women forging paths in the distilling industry.

Women are at the top of a growing list of outstanding brands and products. From large companies (Fawn Weaver, Uncle Nearest, Carole Quiton, Master Distiller at Cointreau, Elizabeth McCall, Assistant Master Distiller at Woodford Reserve), to medium and small companies (Lisa Roper Wicker, Master Distiller and President at Widow Jane Distillery;  Stephanie Jordan, CEO and co-founder of Avallen Spirits, and Kathy Katon MD & Founder at Brighton Gin). It doesn’t need to be Women’s History Month to find a reason to support and enjoy these fantastic products or celebrate the brilliant women at their helm.

Collaborating with Women-Led Suppliers, and leading from the front.

Twist Events' commitment to supporting women extends beyond their event offerings.  Employing a 50:50 female / male split in their bartender roster, they also support and collaborate with women-led suppliers, engaging their services and forming partnerships with them throughout the year.  80% of all our supplier brands are small and independent companies. 30% of our wines come from women-led businesses (we’re working on the next 20% and hope to get parity within 2024), all of our recommended caterers are women-led and many of our spirit brands are women-led too.

The events and hospitality industry, like many others, has a gender equality problem. Progress is being made, but progress is slow. 15 years ago we were one of the first hospitality staff agencies to refuse to specify gender when booking staff for events.  It was normal (and sadly still is for some companies and staff agencies), for clients to ask agencies “I need 12 boys for drinks service and 12 girls for canapé service”.  Only this week, in 2024, Twist was asked to provide a specific number of “girls” and a specific number of “boys” in specific roles for an upcoming event. Needless to say, we (carefully and without admonishing) took some time to try to educate as to why the gender of the staff can’t be the reason we offer roles, and that we will be distributing the roles based on capability and experience only. Thankfully the client was open to the discussion, and so hopefully will consider a more positive approach moving forward.  It’s frustrating that we’re still getting requests like this but we will continue to try to educate as we go along.

Promoting gender-equality (and equality in general) in the event industry is not just the right thing to do, it’s also the best thing to do for your business.

Creative Activities for Women's History Month

Women's History Month serves as a platform for creativity and innovation. There are countless ways to engage in the celebration, whether through educational presentations, themed activities, or artistic expressions. These creative activities can provide a deeper understanding of women's history, highlight the achievements of remarkable women, and inspire current and future generations.

Inspirational Women's Stories

Storytelling emerges as a powerful method to celebrate Women's History Month. Sharing the stories of women's accomplishments can inspire and empower others. This can be done through book clubs, storytelling sessions, or guest speaker events.

By sharing these narratives, we can learn from other women's experiences, support women, and celebrate their achievements.

Artistic Expression

Commemorating Women's History Month can also be achieved through artistic expression. Art workshops or performances can celebrate women's contributions to culture and society. From art lessons inspired by women artists to exhibitions featuring female artists, art offers a unique medium to honour and celebrate women's accomplishments.

Educational Initiatives for Women's History Month

Educational initiatives hold an equally crucial role in Women's History Month as events and creative activities. These initiatives, such as workshops and seminars, provide a platform for education, discourse, and empowerment on issues impacting women. One such initiative is the National Women's History Project, which aims to raise awareness and appreciation for the contributions of women throughout history.

Workshops and Seminars

Increasing awareness and fostering understanding of women's history and relevant issues can be effectively done through:

• Workshops
• Seminars
• Informative ˜lunch and learns'
• Specialised equality and diversity training courses

These learning opportunities not only provide valuable knowledge but also stimulate discussions and promote understanding.

Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs are another powerful educational initiative. They provide crucial support and empowerment for women in their personal and professional development. By sharing knowledge, providing guidance, and establishing networks, mentorship programs foster growth and inspire women to reach their full potential.

Promoting Gender Equality in the Workplace

Promoting gender equality in the workplace is a commitment that extends beyond Women's History Month celebrations. This can be achieved through diversity and inclusion training, as well as providing support for female employees.  If prospective employees see that a company is inclusive, positive and progressive, they are much more likely to consider working for that company.  It shouldn’t be passive. Unconscious bias to recruit staff “like me” is a real thing, and can unintentionally lead to unbalanced and non-diverse teams. It’s important to review your recruitment procedures regularly and make sure complacency with bias never sets in.

Diversity and Inclusion Training

Establishing a more inclusive work environment hinges greatly on diversity and inclusion training. It aids in recognising and eradicating biases, cultivating a culture of respect, and fostering collaboration within a diverse workforce.

Such training programs not only enhance cultural awareness but also create a fairer work environment for all.

Supporting Female Employees

Another critical aspect of promoting gender equality in the workplace is the support for female employees. Resources such as networking events, employee resource groups, and recognition programs can be implemented to support and empower female employees. These initiatives not only provide resources and support but also foster a culture that values and supports female employees.

Celebrating Women's History Month Across Industries

The celebration of Women's History Month, initiated by a presidential proclamation declaring its importance, permeates various industries, from tech to leadership. By highlighting the achievements of women in these areas, we can inspire and empower others to follow in their footsteps and celebrate Women's History Month.

Women in Tech

Trailblazing women in the tech industry have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations. Celebrating their achievements during Women's History Month not only raises awareness of their accomplishments but also highlights the need for more diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Women in Leadership Roles

Women in leadership roles across various industries are an inspiration to many. Their success stories, shared during Women's History Month, inspire and empower women to pursue leadership positions, thus empowering women to break barriers and achieve their goals.

Their presence contributes to enhanced diversity, resulting in heightened innovation, increased revenue, and the reduction of the gender pay gap.

Summary

In conclusion, Women's History Month is an important time to celebrate and recognise the achievements of women. From Women's History Month events to creative activities, educational initiatives, and promoting gender equality in the workplace, there are endless ways to commemorate this significant month. Let's continue to honour the amazing women in our lives, not just in March, but year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you celebrate National women's history month?

You can celebrate National Women's History Month by participating in special events and celebrations, exploring the history of women's rights, and being aware of the issues women still face today. You can also join book clubs, take action on equality issues, and mentor girls or fellow women.

How can we raise awareness for women's history month?

You can raise awareness for Women's History Month by organising tours, hosting events like book clubs or movie nights, creating social media content, donating funds, encouraging young women, and volunteering your time. These initiatives can help spread awareness and celebrate the achievements of women throughout history.

What is the 2024 theme for women's history month?

The theme for Women's History Month 2024 is "Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories," honouring women who have dedicated their lives to producing art and reflecting the human condition.

What is women's history month UK?

Women's History Month in the UK is celebrated in March to honour and recognise the contributions of women and trans women to various aspects of society, including arts, history, culture, and technology. It originally started as a week-long celebration in 1981 before evolving into a month-long commemoration in 1987.

What is the significance of diversity and inclusion training in the workplace?

Diversity and inclusion training are crucial for creating an inclusive work environment, recognising and eliminating biases, and fostering respect and collaboration among a diverse workforce. This training helps create a more respectful and collaborative workplace.