History bursts with important events that have made the world a better place. Women have always played essential roles in the movements for voting rights, civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, labor rights, children’s rights, and much more. They’ve also accomplished great things in every field, including medicine, science, literature, and politics. Because women have been so influential throughout history, on March 8, the world recognizes International Women’s Day as a celebration of the accomplishments of women in areas like culture, politics, economics, and society at large. 

The American Legion Auxiliary shines as an example of trailblazing women. The original trailblazer, Edith Hobart, was the first ALA national president, elected in 1921. She was also the Department of Ohio’s first president. Prior to taking national office, Hobart was known for following her enlisted son to military encampments, where she worked as an American Red Cross supervisor. Hobart was a fearless leader with a deep-rooted love for America and her ideals. 

This year on International Women’s Day, pay tribute to a woman like Edith Hobart who inspires you, and support the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation by donating in her honor. A tribute donation offers you a thoughtful way to celebrate a special person while contributing to our mission to positively impact the lives of our veterans, military, and their families by funding programs of the ALA today and for future generations. International Women’s Day is a great opportunity to recognize the successes of your peers and make a gift in honor of an influential woman in your life. 

We also want to hear your stories of the women who inspire you. Share your story on social media, tag @ALAforVeterans, and use the hashtags #IWD2023 and #ServiceNotSelf and you could be featured in an ALA National Headquarters Instagram or Facebook story. 

International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change, and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities. 

To make a gift in honor of an inspirational woman in your life, click here!