Every year on March 8, people across the globe come together to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD)—a day dedicated to recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It’s also a time to acknowledge the challenges that remain in the fight for gender equality and to inspire action toward a more inclusive world.
Women Who Inspire Us:
At Elkins High School, we’re proud to celebrate the amazing women who have paved the future for all of us. From historical figures like Malala Yousafzai, who advocates for girls’ education, to Marie Curie, who revolutionized science, their stories inspire us to push boundaries and create change.
Trailblazing Female Journalists
Journalism has long been a powerful tool for truth and change, and female journalists have played a crucial role in shaping history. Here are just a few of the women who have made a lasting impact in the field:
Nellie Bly (1864–1922) – A pioneering investigative journalist, Bly went undercover in a mental institution to expose inhumane conditions, proving the power of fearless reporting.
Ida B. Wells (1862–1931) – A journalist and activist, Wells risked her life to report on racial injustice and led an anti-lynching crusade in the United States.
Christiane Amanpour (b. 1958) – One of the most recognized international journalists, Amanpour has reported from war zones and interviewed world leaders, bringing critical global issues to light.
Maria Ressa (b. 1963) – A Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist from the Philippines, Ressa has fought for press freedom and exposed corruption despite facing political persecution.
Gwen Ifill (1955–2016) – A groundbreaking broadcast journalist, Ifill was one of the first Black women to anchor a national news program, paving the way for diversity in media.
These women have used journalism to challenge injustice, uncover the truth, and inspire future generations. Their stories remind us of the importance of press freedom and the need for diverse voices in media.