Central Appalachia has been shaped by countless women. Think about life in the mountains, and then try to think about one aspect of it that hasn’t been touched in some significant way by a woman. It’s very nearly impossible. From environmental and community health advocates, to musicians, artists, storytellers and media makers, Appalachian women have played a significant role in the development of our region and our culture. (Photo credits, clockwise from top left: Making Connections News; West Virginia and Regional History Collection at West Virginia University Libraries; Kerrin Sheldon; Suzanne Higgins; Jean Snedegar; Jean Snedegar; and, WNYC)
Here’s a great profile from West Virginia Public Broadcasting of several Appalachian women who are making an impact today: “Telling Appalachia’s Story Like a Girl and Reshaping Stereotypes Along the Way.”
March is Women’s History Month, and each year at this time, we like to think about all the strong, powerful, courageous women who have shaped our region, both well-known, and not so well-known. We honor them and their contributions and struggles, and we recognize full well that we stand on their shoulders as we transition the region into a brighter future toward which the women of our past and present have always marched.
