March 8 is International Women’s Day, which is a time to commemorate the achievements of women. 

Gina White, the director of International and Multicultural Affairs, said International Women’s Day is important because it’s “a celebration of the past contributions, the current progress, and the fortitude of women for generations to come globally.”

President Joe Biden selected March 8 as International Women’s Day when he signed an action declaring March as Women’s History Month.

The theme of this year’s Women’s History Month is women providing healing and promoting hope. 

According to History.com, the theme is a tribute to the work of caregivers and frontline workers during the pandemic and also a recognition of the ways that women of all cultures have provided healing and hope throughout history.

To celebrate both International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, multiple events were held by campus organizations. 

The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion held a “Coffee and Chat” event at which faculty and staff were invited for “continental breakfast, games and a celebration of all the historic contributions they make to this university every day,” according to White. 

At the event, faculty and staff relaxed, chatted and honored women who have impacted ULM. 

The gerontology program also held an event to honor women who had to overcome obstacles with courage. 

Anita Sharma, an associate professor and the gerontology program coordinator, said women need role models whom they can learn from and identify with. 

“Globally, women are still fighting for equality, equity, and basic respect that is due to any human being,” Sharma said. “Let us celebrate a generation of women who broke the glass ceiling and emerged as wonderful role models for the next generation.” 

Many more events will be hosted throughout March to celebrate Women’s History Month. 

On March 15, Ambitious Women Society is hosting a Women’s History Month bingo night to educate students about women in history in a fun way.