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The month of March is officially recognized as Women’s History Month.

The tradition traces it’s origin back to the first International Women’s Day in March of 1911. In the 80s, Congress passed a resolution recognizing the entire month for the celebration of women’s history.

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A report released by the White House in honor of the occasion reveals that young women in America are more likely than men to have a college degree, and women’s earnings constitute a growing share of household income.

The White House released the report, which it called the “first comprehensive federal report on the status of women in almost 50 years,” on the first day of Women’s History Month.

“The Obama administration has been focused on addressing the challenges faced by women and girls from Day 1 because we know that the success of women and girls is vital to winning the future,” said Valerie Jarrett, chair of the White House Council on Women and Girls. “Today’s report not only serves as a look back on American women’s lives, but serves as a guidepost to help us move forward.”


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The report also notes that although women’s earnings continue to grow,  there are still significant wage gaps between men and women of comparable education. Though women’s rights  have definitely come a long way from 1911, there is no question that much more work needs to be done. What will you do to celebrate?

You can view the complete report here

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