For too long, history has been dominated by the stories of men, with women often relegated to the sidelines or completely forgotten. However, many women have been pioneers, champions of social change, and made invaluable contributions to society. It is crucial that we recognise their achievements and ensure their stories are told. This Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate five such women whose names you may not have encountered in school books, but who have left a significant mark on the world.
1. Henrietta Lacks: Henrietta Lacks, born in Virginia in 1920, was a tobacco farmer diagnosed with cervical cancer. Without her knowledge or consent, doctors took a sample of her cancer cells. These cells, known as “HeLa” cells, were found to reproduce endlessly, making them immortal. Her cells have led to major scientific breakthroughs in cancer research and the development of the polio vaccine. Lacks’ story also raises significant ethical questions about patient privacy and the mistreatment of people of colour in healthcare. Her legacy continues to impact medical science today.
2. Hedy Lamarr: Born in Vienna in 1914, Hedy Lamarr was an actress and inventor. She fled Nazi Austria and moved to the United States, where she became a Hollywood star. However, she also had a passion for innovation. Working with George Antheil, Lamarr developed the “Secret Communications System,” designed to switch radio frequencies during World War II so that enemies could not intercept messages. This technology was later adopted by the US Navy and is a building block of today’s wireless communication, including cell phones, GPS, and Wi-Fi. Lamarr’s story highlights her brilliance beyond the silver screen.
3. Patsy Mink: Patsy Mink, the daughter of second-generation Japanese immigrants, became the first woman of colour elected to the House of Representatives in 1964. She faced racism while attending the University of Nebraska, and successfully fought against the university’s segregation policy. She served in the House from 1964-1977 and again from 1990-2002. Mink co-authored the Title IX law, which was later renamed the Patsy T. Mink Gender Equality in Education Act following her death. Her dedication to public service and gender equality has left a lasting legacy.
4. Faith Spotted Eagle: Faith Spotted Eagle, a member of the Yankton Sioux Nation in South Dakota, is a Native American activist, peacemaker, and educator. She is a recognised leader in the fight against the Keystone XL and Dakota Access oil pipelines. In 2016, she became the first Native American to receive an electoral vote for president. Spotted Eagle is a founding member of the Brave Heart Society, helped develop the first Native women’s shelter, and provides PTSD therapy. She embodies a lifelong commitment to community and environmental justice.
5. Gladys Bentley: Gladys Bentley was a non-conforming icon of the 1920s. Born in Philadelphia in 1907, she moved to New York after facing harassment for her gender expression. She performed as a pianist and blues singer, often wearing a tuxedo and singing songs about male exploitation and domestic abuse. A Black lesbian who often cross-dressed, Bentley pushed the boundaries of gender and sexuality and created spaces of inclusivity. She is now recognized as one of America’s most successful Black entertainers of the 1920s.
These five women, though not always widely known, have significantly impacted the world with their intelligence, courage and determination. By recognizing their achievements, we begin to rewrite history and acknowledge the contributions of all. It is important to remember that women’s history is more than just a month - it is something we should honour throughout the year.
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