The month of March is Women's History Month, and it is what sparked an idea for this article. One of my friends, (who is also an amazing Resident Assistant in the residence halls), created a bulletin board full of quotes by strong, intelligent women of history. After I talked about how awesome these women were with my roommate, I thought, "Why not find even more?"
I could talk for days about all of the inspirational women in the world and the men who are helping to fight for equality, but to sum it up in 500 words, here are a few of my favorites. Many are modern day women, but they are all an inspiration to me, regardless of the field they have excelled in.
Emma Watson
"If we stop defining ourselves by what we are not, and start defining ourselves by who we are, we can all be freer."
Emma Watson became famous in the "Harry Potter" movies, but has continued on to share her stance on feminism and equality for all. She also speaks a lot about how media has affected how young girls think they need to act or look, when they should be able to be themselves.
Mother Teresa
"I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples"
There are far too many amazing quotes by Mother Teresa, but this one speaks to anyone who feels like they can't make a difference in the world. That is far from the truth. Everyone has something they can share with the world. You never know where those ripples will reach and make an impact.
Maya Angelou
"Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women."
I think that when a woman speaks up, she speaks for many other women who might be too shy to stand up and say what they believe, and it might even spark more people to speak up against inequality.
Malala Yousafzai
"When the whole world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful."
The youngest recipient of the Noble Peace Prize, and strong advocate for education rights, knows exactly what it means to stand up for what you believe in.
Bethany Hamilton
"Life is a lot like surfing, when you caught in the impact zone, you've got to just get back up. Because you never know what may be over the next wave."
After losing her arm in a shark attack, Bethany Hamilton made an inspiration journey back to competitive surfing. She kept her faith and never let her obstacles defeat her. Don't ever give up. You may be in the lowest point of your life, but there is always hope and something to look forward to, just over the next wave.
Misty Copeland
"Speak up for yourself and what you believe in. You can still be an elegant woman and be strong and powerful."
I didn't know about Misty Copeland until my roommate showed me this video of her:
She's the first African American Female Principle Dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. After being rejected as a young dancer, she never gave up and is one of the most prestigious dancers today. I love that she talks about being a graceful, elegant woman, while also standing up for your values and being powerful. Despite what today's society says, you can be both elegant and strong.
Each one of these women has inspired me in some way, and I hope they can inspire you too!
