A Message from the Director, DoDDS Pacific
Women’s History Month

     As we pause this month to celebrate Women’s History Month, I encourage you to reflect on the outstanding achievements and contributions of American women whose actions have positively impacted our Nation. Through their contributions in the home, classrooms, boardrooms, and battlefields, women have increased equality and the advancement of freedom in American society. Women have made extraordinary contributions in shaping our Nation’s future.

     This year’s theme, “Women Pioneering the Future,” calls for us to remember the efforts of Bella Abzug, “Mother” Mary Harris Jones, Annie Dodge Wauneka, and Sarah Winnemucca. Their work in championing women’s rights, human rights, equality, peace, and social justice, paved the way for Brigadier General Wilma Waught, USAF (Ret), Martha Wright Griffiths, Betty Friedan, and Marian Wright Edelman. Their achievements are as diverse as they are, yet they are bound by the same elements-humanity and purpose.

     Women account for nearly half of all workers in the U.S. Labor Force. Today there are more women in the United States Congress than at any other time in our country’s history, and over 100,000 active duty female personnel serve in our armed forces. While continuing the fight for equality at home, American women have reached across the globe to aid women throughout the world in areas such as Afghanistan, Rwanda, Pakistan, and Bosnia to stamp out acts of oppression. They have taken a firm stand for the non-negotiable demands for human dignity for all women throughout the world. They continue to aid the cause of freedom through their service in their communities, their government, and the military.

     Women have played a vital role in shaping our Nation’s future through education. From the sacrifice of mothers and grandmothers to the dedication of successful women in business, government, education, and charitable work, the legacy of women in America gives all young people in this country the courage to dream without limits. First Lady Laura Bush said, “When you give children books and education, you give them the ability to imagine a future of opportunity, equality, and justice.”

     I am proud to recognize the many contributions women have made to American history, and I encourage all school leaders, educators, and parents to acknowledge Women’s History Month with special celebrations and activities that honor the extraordinary achievements of women.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS Pacific