March 2004

 

National Women's History Month (US) - was initiated by the National Women's History Project (NWHP), to "promote gender equity through education about women's diverse lives and accomplishments."  In 1987 Congress proclaimed March to be National Women’s History Month.

 

 

Irish-American Heritage Month - Because many Americans celebrate their Irish lineage on St. Patrick's Day, March was chosen as Irish American Heritage Month. The month was proclaimed in 1995 by Congress.

 

 

March 1

St. David's Day (English, Welsh)

St. David, or "Dewi Sant",  is the patron saint of Wales. He lived in the 6th century and was a Celtic monk and archbishop.  St. David's Day is celebrated on March 1st, the day of his death in 589, and dates back to 1120, when he was canonized by Pope Callactus II.  The Welsh celebrate this day with singing, poetry, traditional food and - not to forget - daffodils.

 

March 3

Hinamatsuri also known at The Doll Festival (Japan)

This major social festival in traditional Japan is combined with the spring festival and is celebrated with a display of ceremonial dolls, or "hina", in honor of the girls in the family.

 

March 7

Purim - Feast of Lots (Judaism)

Purim is the most festive of Jewish holidays.  It celebrates the deliverance of Jews in Persia from the machinatcons of Haman.  The Jews celebrate with prizes, noisemakers, costumes and treats.

 

 

March 8

International Women's Day (United Nations) - First held in 1910, this day promoted progressive issues including universal suffrage, voting rights, and equal pay, among others.  In 1975, this day was given official recognition by the UN.  Many countries worldwide observe and celebrate this day by highlighting women's progress, especially socially, economically and politically.

 

March 17

St. Patrick's Day (Ireland)

Saint Patrick's name at birth was Maewyn Succat.  He took the name Patrick after he became a priest later in his life.  At 16, he was kidnapped by pirates and sold into slavery in Ireland to work as a shepherd.  He turned to religion for solace and escaped after 5 years of slavery.   He studied in the monastery for 12 years and came to believe it was his calling to convert the pagans of Ireland to Christianity.  His mission lasted for 30 years and he died on March 17 in 461 AD. 

 

March 20

Spring Begins

 

March 25

The Annunciation (Christian)

This commemorates the day that Jesus’ mother, Mary, was visited by an angel to inform her that she was blessed and chosen to be the mother of Christ.

 

 credit: kumc.edu/diversity