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As we celebrate Women's History Month this year, Lauderhill Mall shines a spotlight on ten extraordinary women who made history in their own unique ways. From pioneers in politics and civil rights to trailblazers in science, art, and literature, these women have left an indelible mark on history and inspired generations of women to follow in their footsteps. Join us as we celebrate the achievements and contributions of these ten incredible women and honor the role of women in shaping the world we live in today.

1. Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris has made to to the top of our most celebrated women this women's history month. She made history in 2020 as the first woman, Black person, and South Asian American to be elected Vice President of the United States. Born in Oakland, California in 1964, Harris is the daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants. Before becoming Vice President, she served as a Senator from California, the state's Attorney General, and District Attorney for San Francisco. 

Harris's trailblazing win as Vice President is a significant milestone for women and people of color, as it shattered several glass ceilings in one fell swoop. Her historic win inspired women of color across the globe, who saw in her an example of what is possible when women and minorities are given a chance to succeed. Harris's groundbreaking achievement also underscores the importance of diversity and representation in positions of power, and serves as a reminder of the progress that can be made when barriers are broken down.

2. Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Ruth Bader Ginsburg, also known as RBG, was an American jurist and legal scholar who spent her entire career fighting for women's rights and gender equality hence we celebrate her in this year's women's history month. She was appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States in 1993 by President Bill Clinton, becoming only the second woman to serve on the high court. Before her appointment to the Supreme Court, Ginsburg was a trailblazing lawyer who dedicated much of her career to fighting gender discrimination and advocating for women's legal rights. 

She co-founded the Women's Rights Project at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in 1972, where she litigated a series of landmark cases that expanded women's legal rights and protections. Some of her most notable cases included Reed v. Reed, which established that the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex, and United States v. Virginia, which struck down the male-only admission policy of the Virginia Military Institute.

During her tenure on the Supreme Court, Justice Ginsburg continued to champion gender equality and women's rights. She authored several influential opinions, including the majority opinion in United States v. Virginia. She also became known for her powerful dissents, which often provided a roadmap for future legal challenges. Ginsburg's legacy as a pioneering feminist icon and champion of women's rights cannot be overstated. Her tireless advocacy and groundbreaking legal work paved the way for future generations of women in law and beyond. Her passing in 2020 was deeply felt by many across the world, but her legacy continues to inspire and empower women to fight for equality and justice.

3. Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai is an extraordinary young woman who has made a profound impact on the world through her activism and advocacy for girls' education. Born in Pakistan, Malala grew up in a society where girls' education was often undervalued and denied. At the age of 11, she began speaking out against the Taliban's ban on girls' education in her hometown of Swat. Her advocacy for girls' education and her outspokenness made her a target, and in 2012, at the age of 15, she was shot by a Taliban gunman on her way to school.

Despite the attempt on her life, Malala refused to be silenced. She continued her advocacy from her hospital bed and, after recovering, became a global symbol of the fight for girls' education. In 2013, she addressed the United Nations and spoke passionately about the importance of education for all children, especially girls. Her advocacy led to the creation of the Malala Fund, which supports education initiatives around the world.

Malala's activism has been recognized internationally, and in 2014, she became the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. She has also been named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world multiple times.

4. Mae Jemison

Mae Jemison is a true pioneer in the field of space exploration and science education thus she deserves to be celebrated on women's history month 2023. In 1992, she made history as the first Black woman to travel to space as a mission specialist aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. But her impact extends far beyond this incredible achievement. Jemison has used her platform to inspire and advocate for science education and innovation, particularly for women and people of color who are often underrepresented in these fields. 

After leaving NASA, Jemison founded the Jemison Group, which focuses on research and development in science and technology, and the 100 Year Starship project, which aims to make interstellar travel a reality within the next century. Jemison is also a vocal advocate for science education and has dedicated much of her life to inspiring young people, especially girls, to pursue careers in science and technology. Through her groundbreaking achievements and tireless advocacy, Mae Jemison has become a true inspiration for generations of women in STEM.

5. Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter known for her vivid and powerful self-portraits, which captured her physical and emotional pain, as well as her struggles with identity and gender. Despite living a relatively short life, Kahlo's legacy as an artist, feminist, and icon of Mexican culture has endured for decades and that's why we recognize her in women's history month. Here are some fascinating facts about Frida Kahlo and her impact on art and society:

• Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City and began painting at a young age. However, it wasn't until she was in her 20s and recovering from a serious bus accident that left her with lifelong injuries that she began to focus on art as a serious pursuit.
• Kahlo's art often depicted her physical pain and the emotional turmoil she experienced as a result of her injuries and other personal struggles, including her tumultuous relationship with fellow artist Diego Rivera. Her works were deeply personal and often featured elements of Mexican culture and mythology.
• Despite her talent, Kahlo's work was not widely recognized during her lifetime. It wasn't until the 1970s that her paintings began to gain international acclaim and recognition as works of art.
• Kahlo's life and work have inspired countless women artists and activists, who see her as a symbol of strength, resilience, and creativity. Her unapologetic portrayal of her physical and emotional pain has helped to destigmatize discussions of mental and physical health, particularly among women.
• Kahlo's influence extends beyond the art world. Her signature style, which included long, flowing skirts and colorful embroidered blouses, has become an iconic symbol of Mexican culture and a source of inspiration for fashion designers around the world.
• In recent years, Kahlo's legacy has been the subject of renewed interest and debate, with some critics questioning the authenticity and accuracy of her portrayal of Mexican culture and identity. Nevertheless, her impact on the art world and popular culture is undeniable, and her life and work continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

6. Wilma Mankiller

Wilma Mankiller was a visionary leader who left an indelible mark on the Cherokee Nation and the Indigenous rights movement. Born in Oklahoma in 1945, Mankiller grew up in rural poverty and faced discrimination and racism from a young age. Despite these challenges, she became a fierce advocate for her community and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Native Americans.

In 1985, Mankiller made history when she was elected as the first female chief of the Cherokee Nation, a position she held for 10 years. During her tenure, she implemented numerous initiatives to improve health care, education, and economic development in Cherokee communities. She also worked to strengthen the Nation's sovereignty and promote greater recognition of Indigenous rights.

Mankiller's impact extended far beyond the Cherokee Nation. She was a leading voice in the Indigenous rights movement and a passionate advocate for women's empowerment. She co-founded the Indigenous Women's Network and was a founding board member of the National Museum of the American Indian.

7. Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou is one of the most influential writers and poets of the 20th century, known for her powerful voice and poignant words. Born in 1928 in St. Louis, Missouri, Angelou experienced significant trauma and hardships in her early life, including rape and the murder of her uncle. Despite these challenges, she found solace in literature and writing, which would eventually become her life's work.

Angelou's writing explores themes of race, identity, and womanhood, often drawing on her own experiences and those of the African-American community. Her most famous work, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," is a powerful memoir that recounts her childhood and coming of age in the Jim Crow South. The book, which was published in 1969, became a bestseller and is now considered a classic of American literature.

Angelou's impact on literature and culture extends far beyond her own writing. She was a fierce advocate for civil rights and worked alongside leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. Her poetry and essays inspired a generation of African-American women writers, including Toni Morrison and Alice Walker. She was also the first Black woman to have a screenplay produced, and her acting career included roles in films such as "Roots" and "Poetic Justice."

Throughout her life, Angelou received numerous honors and awards for her contributions to literature and culture, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Arts, and over 50 honorary degrees. She passed away in 2014, but her legacy lives on through her writing and advocacy. Maya Angelou remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for women of all backgrounds, and her words continue to resonate with readers around the world.

8. Angela Davis

Angela Davis is an American activist and scholar who has dedicated her life to fighting for social justice and civil rights. Her work as a leading voice in the Black Power movement and her advocacy for prison abolition have made her an icon of progressive politics.

9. Ada Lovelace

Ada Lovelace was a pioneering mathematician and writer who is credited with being the world's first computer programmer. Her work on Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine in the 19th century laid the foundation for modern computing and has inspired generations of women in STEM fields.

10. Dolores Huerta

Dolores Huerta is a Mexican-American labor leader and civil rights activist who co-founded the United Farm Workers with Cesar Chavez. Her tireless work on behalf of farmworkers and marginalized communities has made her a legend of the labor movement and a symbol of women's leadership.

Conclusion

These ten women are just a few examples of the countless women throughout history who have made a significant impact on society and paved the way for future generations of women. They have broken barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and inspired millions with their courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. This Women's History Month, we honor and celebrate these remarkable women, along with all the women who have made history in their own unique ways. Lauderhill Mall is proud to recognize and support women's achievements and contributions to society, and we remain committed to empowering and uplifting women from all backgrounds.