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Alaska Legislature Designates March as Women’s History Month
Senate Bill 43 Recognizes the Accomplishments and Contributions of Alaska Women in Perpetuity
JUNEAU — Today, the Alaska State Legislature passed Senate Bill 43, establishing March as Women’s History Month in Alaska. The bill, sponsored by Senator Elvi Gray Jackson, D-Anchorage, recognizes and highlights the contributions of women to Alaska’s political, economic, and cultural development.
Senator Gray-Jackson recognized that the bill establishes a consistent framework for recognizing women’s contributions to shaping Alaska’s institutions, politics, and communities.
“Alaska has always had strong women leaders—from the earliest days before statehood to today, where a record number of women serve in the Alaska legislature, nearly representing half of the elected officials,” said Senator Gray-Jackson. “This bill provides a simple yet important way to ensure their contributions are not overlooked, and we continue to acknowledge the impact women have had throughout history.”
In the past, the Alaska legislature would informally recognize Alaska Women's History Month, but it was never codified in state law. By etching this into Alaska statutes, it will bring recognition to the gaps in women's history where they have been overlooked and provide historical context for future generations, offering inspiration for young people to learn from and build upon.
“Passing SB 43 demonstrates to our youth that Alaska values women’s contributions,” said Representative Carolyn Hall, D-Anchorage. “Codifying Women’s History Month lifts up, recognizes, and permanently integrates women’s experiences into our state’s narrative.”
Senate Bill 43 now heads to Governor Dunleavy's office for signature.
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