This year marks the 31st anniversary of Women’s History Month, which is celebrated through the entire month of March.

The important role women have history is often overlooked, whether it be in fields of science, politics, environment and the arts. The aim and purpose of the month is educate the young and old alike about historical figures and milestones that were led by women.

The month March (which was named after Mars, the Roman god of war if you were wondering) was chosen for this occasion because it falls around International Women’s Day on March 8th. International Women’s Day was first celebrated in 1911.

The month-long observation of women’s history because of a school in California in 1978. Sonama School district held essay contests and presentations were given by women at the schools. There was even a parade downtown. A year later, a two-week long conference was held by Sarah Lawrence College.

During the following seven months, they lobbied for a declaration of National Women’s History Week in March.

And in March 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued a presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8, 1980 National Women’s History Week. Schools all across the country began incorporating Women’s History into the curriculum. Eventually, the week grew into a month-long occurrence.

Each year has a different theme. This year is “Visionary Women: Champions of Peace and Nonviolence.”

“We honor women who had left efforts to end war, violence and injustice. These women have helped lead us towards the path of using nonviolence to change society,” says womenshistory.org.

However, while it is an entire month of celebration, March 8 is specifically International Women’s Day. Senior Maureen Palmer tweeted about it the morning of. “Happy International Women’s Day! Love yourself and your fellow women. Today we bring each other up and not tear others down!”