By Deputy Erie County Executive Lisa Chimera
March 1 marks the start of Women’s History Month, a time during which our nation honors the accomplishments and historical contributions of women, while drawing attention to the challenges they still face.
President Jimmy Carter was the first to issue a presidential proclamation declaring the Week of March 8, 1980, as National Women’s History Week. Subsequent presidents continued to proclaim a National Women’s History Week until 1987 when Congress passed a law designating March as “Women’s History Month.” Since 1995, each president has issued an annual proclamation designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.”
The National Women’s History Alliance selects and publishes a yearly theme. The theme for Women's History Month 2026 is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”
I am proud of the ongoing work being done across Erie County to promote a sustainable, resilient community, and I would like to thank the women who I am privileged to work alongside in these efforts.
Annually, ECCSW kicks-off WHM with an awards ceremony. This is always a wonderful event, and I look forward to celebrating this year’s honorees. I am also excited to participate in both the Girls Civic Engagement Summit and the LeadHERship Women’s Expo during the month of March.
Throughout the year, ECCSW connects local women with the resources they need to reach their full potential. Under the direction of Commissioner of Public Advocacy Karen King, the commission is comprised of community members who make recommendations to coordinate, consolidate or expand the resources and services available to women.
We were proud to recently announce Kelly Dumas as the advisory board’s new chairperson. Kelly is the founder of Dumas R.I.S.E. Providers Inc., a Buffalo-based nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the behavioral-health workforce and expanding culturally centered mental-health services in Western New York.
Last fall, Erie County also recognized the 10th anniversary of Tribute Garden WNY at Isle View Park, a permanent, public tribute honoring fallen victims and survivors of domestic violence, while also raising awareness. This permanent tribute serves as an important reminder that domestic violence exists, and that the lives devastated by domestic violence are remembered with dignity, love and respect. I thank ECCSW, partner agencies and all who work year-round to make the Tribute Garden a peaceful place for reflection and healing.
I encourage everyone to take the time during the month of March to reflect on the impact of women throughout history: Attend WHM events, participate in meaningful discussion, and celebrate the women making a difference in your community.
Women belong in government and in every industry. They are leaders, trailblazers, and I am privileged to work alongside so many inspiring women each and every day. Let us remember that representation is important. When our young girls “see it” they can “be it.”
I wish everyone a very happy Women’s History Month!