Women have made myriad contributions to shaping the state of Florida, from the select few who traveled with Ponce de Leon to the outstanding leaders of today. Many have raised families, educated children, and worked in their communities as volunteers. Others have held paid jobs and pursued careers, combining family and work responsibilities. The courageous vision championed by women of past generations inspires us to defend the dreams and opportunities of those to come. The Florida Women’s History Essay Contest for Middle School students and the Florida Women’s History Video Contest for High School students present the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the many ways that women’s history has become woven into the fabric of our state and national story. Sharing the narratives of women’s lives encourages girls and young women to think larger and bolder, and gives boys and men a fuller understanding of what women can accomplish. There is real power in hearing women’s stories, as it inspires today’s generations and opens the way to the future. Each year, the Commission seeks essays and videos on different topics related to women’s history, designed o inspire the future leaders of our state and to help them learn about women’s history. Winning students are awarded prizes and recognized by the Commission.

“No person in the United States shall on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” It was 50 years ago that Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 was passed into law. These 37 words served as the groundwork to open the door of opportunity for girls, especially in sports. It took years after the passage of the law for it to begin to take hold, but it eventually led to the rise of collegiate women’s athletic programs and professional leagues. Women are now making sports history, not just through their careers, but by being pioneers and breaking the glass ceiling, serving as an inspiration and paving the way for other women to follow in their footsteps.

“No person in the United States shall on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” It was 50 years ago that Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 was passed into law. These 37 words served as the groundwork to open the door of opportunity for girls, especially in sports. It took years after the passage of the law for it to begin to take hold, but it eventually led to the rise of collegiate women’s athletic programs and professional leagues. Women are now making sports history, not just through their careers, but by being pioneers and breaking the glass ceiling, serving as an inspiration and paving the way for other women to follow in their footsteps.

“No person in the United States shall on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” It was 50 years ago that Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 was passed into law. These 37 words served as the groundwork to open the door of opportunity for girls, especially in sports. It took years after the passage of the law for it to begin to take hold, but it eventually led to the rise of collegiate women’s athletic programs and professional leagues. Women are now making sports history, not just through their careers, but by being pioneers and breaking the glass ceiling, serving as an inspiration and paving the way for other women to follow in their footsteps.