Celebrating Women’s History Month

[2 MIN READ]

In this article: 

• March is Women’s History Month.

• Learn about the Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of St. Joseph.

• Find ways to learn and celebrate.

Celebrating Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month is an important opportunity to reflect on the remarkable achievements and enduring legacies of women, whose contributions have shaped our world in countless ways. At Providence, we are proud to be founded by women who worked tirelessly to serve those who were poor and vulnerable: the Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.

Our heritage:

In 1856, Mother Joseph and four Sisters of Providence established hospitals, schools and orphanages across the Northwest. Over the years, other Catholic sisters transferred sponsorship of their ministries to Providence, including the Little Company of Mary, Dominicans and Charity of Leavenworth.

In 1912, a small group of Sisters of St. Joseph landed on the rugged shores of Eureka, California, to provide education and health care. The ministry later established roots in Orange, California, and expanded to serve Southern California, the California High Desert, Northern California and Texas.

Sister Susanne Hartung, chief Mission officer, is inspired by our heritage: “Every day, I hear stories of courageous and resilient women working in service to the Mission and carrying on the legacy of those who came before us. The impact of the foundation left by Mother Joseph, the Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of St. Joseph is immeasurable and something I am profoundly proud to be a part of.”

Watch this video to learn more about the Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of St. Joseph.

About Women’s History Month

Women’s History Week began in 1978 in Santa Rosa, California, and was first recognized nationally in 1980 when President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week.

In 1987, Congress passed a law designating March as Women’s History Month and President Ronald Reagan issued Presidential Proclamation 5619.

This year’s Women’s History Month theme is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.”

Ways to celebrate

• Support women-owned businesses: Use your purchasing power to support these entrepreneurs, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable economy.
• Read more about Providence’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

The strong women who created the foundation for the work we do today continue to inspire us in our Mission and vision of Health for a Better World. Let’s use this month to reflect on and honor their lasting contributions and those of other women throughout history. Happy Women’s History Month!

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Related resources

Celebrating Women’s History Month with the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange

Women’s History Month: Telling our stories