Brevard Public School Celebrates Women’s History, Irish American Heritage and Greek American Heritage Month

Join BPS as we continue our yearly celebration of diversity and culture represented in the diverse community we serve and employee.   During the month of March, we are honored to observe – Women’s History Month, Irish American Heritage Month, and Greek-American Heritage Month.

Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month began as Women’s History Week in California back in 1978 to honor women’s contributions to American history and society from its independence to present.  The movement spread and President Jimmy Carter was the first to issue a Presidential Proclamation of the celebratory week back in 1980.  Subsequent Presidents continue to proclaim a National Women’s History Week after congress passed a public law designating it as a month observance in 1987.  Women’s History Month has grown into an international celebration honoring the contributions of women to history, culture, and society.

The National Women’s History Alliance selects and publishes the yearly theme.  This year’s theme is a continuation of the 2020 theme, since many of the women’s suffrage centennial celebrations originally scheduled for 2020 were cancelled due to the Pandemic, the National Women’s History Alliance is extending the annual theme for 2021 to “Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to Be Silenced.”  Through collaboration with the League of Women Voters Space Coast and the National Caucus of Black Women of Space Coast, BPS proudly recognizes women in Brevard County that have made significant contributions to our community.  Click here to see a list highlighting a few local heroes and moments in history.

Irish American Heritage Month

Irish American Heritage Month was first celebrated in 1991 by proclamation of President George Bush, Sr.  It was intentional that it aligned with Saint Patrick’s Day (March 17^th) for the month-long recognition of the contributions that Irish immigrants and their descendants have made to U.S. society. It is an opportunity for us to learn more about Irish culture beyond green and hopes of ‘good luck’; it provides us a special moment to learn how Irish culture has richly contributed to literature, science, music and so much more across our nation and our community.

For additional education, visit Search Classroom Resources | PBS LearningMedia

Greek American Heritage Month

Greek American Heritage Month, also known as Hellenic Heritage Month or Greek American History Month, coincides with the celebration of Greece’s National Greek Independence Day on March 25^th.  Hellenism, originating from Έλλην (Éllēn, “a Greek”), is the emulation of ancient Greek culture, civilization, principles, and ideals, including humanism, reason, the pursuit of knowledge, the arts, moderation, and civic responsibility.  Organizations across the US, including the local chapter of The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) in Melbourne, preserve and educate others on the contributions of Greek culture to our society and community.

For additional education and resources, visit National Hellenic Society Group Greek Guide to Greatness

Although every heritage month above may not be recognized at this time by the Library of Congress Law, FDOE and/or recognized by the district in the past, they are publicly celebrated.  We are honored to have an opportunity to join our community in observance and support our students and employees in celebrating and learning how our diversity makes us stronger through hearing real stories and making real connections.