Women's History Month and International Women's Day

National Women’s History Month, observed every March since 1987, celebrates women’s contributions to history, culture, and society. International Women’s Day is observed on March 8th. Many countries around the world celebrate the holiday with demonstrations, educational initiatives, and customs such as presenting women with gifts and flowers. Together, Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and the need to uplift the voices and stories of women.

Women have made important contributions to the growth and development of the United States, particularly in the field of transportation. Here is a list of a few honorable mentions:

Harriet Tubman: Helped more than 300 slaves reach freedom through the Underground Railroad.
Susan Morningstar: First woman on record employed by a railroad company.
Eliza Murfey: Patented 16 devices for improving railroad car axles. These devices were used to lubricate the axles with oil, which reduced derailments caused by seized axles and bearings.
Mary Walton: American inventor and civil engineer who designed mechanisms that reduced environmental hazards caused by trains in the 19th century—including air and noise pollution.
Rosa Parks: Refused to obey bus driver James Blake’s order that she give up her seat to make room for a white passenger, sparking the Montgomery County Bus Boycott led by Dr. Martin Luther King. Parks became an icon of resistance and an important symbol of the modern Civil Rights Movement.
Leah “Rosie” Rosenfeld: Filed and settled a sex-discrimination suit against her employer that resulted in a change to California’s women’s protective laws and opened senior positions at the railroad for women. 
Jane Jacobs: Author and theorist of city planning who advocated for community-based approaches in planning.
Elizabeth Hanford Dole: Sworn in as the first woman to the Secretary of the Department of Transportation.
Jolene Molitoris: Became the first female to head the Federal Railroad Administration.
Sarita Britt, Cindia Chambers, and Debra Franks:  San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) selected its first female superintendent(s).
Janice Li:  First queer woman of color to be elected president of the Bay Area Rapid Transit Board (BART).

For more information, visit the US Department of Transportation

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s important to recognize the incredible women who have shaped our communities — including those who have contributed to the field of transportation. From museum exhibits to talks and performances, there are a variety of events along our route that honor the achievements of women throughout history and now.