While February seems to center around Valentine’s Day and the theme of love, many people may not realize that just the day after, February fifteenth, is the birthday and day of honor for renowned women’s activist and social reformer, Susan B. Anthony. Naturally, this begs the question: why is February so focused on love and the need to be in a relationship during this time? Of course, the quick answer is consumerism, which led hearts, gifts, and love to be a norm during this snowy month, yet the point is that we should be spending less time focusing on relationships, trying to be in a relationship, or convincing ourselves that we don’t want a relationship and more time embracing the legacy of Susan B. Anthony and the history of feminism, as well as appreciating the progress that has been achieved over the years.

Galentine’s Day
As was mentioned before, the central focus of February is usually Valentine’s Day, but, due to the popular show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day, celebrated on February 13, was invented. This is a day to spend time with female friends and appreciating all of the strong and empowering female role models that you are surrounded by. Regardless of the idea having been born out of a joke for a comedic show, it has helped bring about a powerful message for the month of February. The message of love and unity, usually portrayed by Valentine’s Day and couples, now through events like Galentine’s Day, can extend itself to a celebration of women and independence that has brought about the idea of February Feminism.

Once Again, Susan B. Anthony
The idea for February Feminism came about when I figured out Susan B. Anthony’s birthday and day of honor was the day after Valentine’s Day. After researching more about the topic, I found out that many other powerful female role models were born in February. Some famous examples include: Rosa Parks, Gertrude Stein, and Elizabeth Blackwell.
The fact that so many influential women happened to be born in February just makes for a greater reason that these brave women should be honored for their contribution to help women gain rights and independence. February also happens to be Black History Month and provides further reason for black women in particular to be commemorated for their triumphs throughout history and admired and remembered for their strength against the constant discrimination black women have faced over the years.

It’s Always a Time for Feminism
Perhaps the most compelling reason of all for celebrating feminism this February is simply that feminism can and should be celebrated throughout the year. The quest of feminism and equality is constantly evolving, and the past achievements of women deserve to be recognized for the role they have played in shaping our society. So why not take the time to appreciate women this February? After all, they do make up 50% of the population.