Women I Admire

It's Women's History Month. For work, I have had to spend quite a bit of time researching events, partnerships and campaigns, which got me thinking about what it means, to me, to be a woman. My own thoughts on feminism and gender equality are fairly under developed. I am wary of anything labeled "feminist", but I nevertheless favor equality, equal rights, equal pay, equal opportunity. I have benefited from the burning bras and chest thumping so what exactly is my problem with the f-word?

I think I am wary of people who always bring gender into conversations and debates. It is really necessary to differentiate between being a successful woman rather than just being successful? And, while I will never be someone who is eager to throw gender into a discussion, I do think it is important to think about some of the unique issues we face because we are women--good and bad.

Does my sexiness upset you? Does it come as a surprise that I dance like I've got diamonds at the meeting of my thighs?- Maya Angelou

In an effort to develop my own sense of self as a woman, I have decided to compile a list of woman that I admire. This month, I will share my list with you as it grows and as my own sense of female identity develops. Want a sneak peak? Take a look at my Pinterest board 

Tomorrow is International Women's Day. What does it mean to be a woman? What type of women do you admire?

photo courtesy of www.damncoolpictures.com