Women’s History Month is observed each March as a time to recognize the resilience, achievements, and lasting influence of women throughout history. It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress women have made, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and celebrate the countless ways women continue to shape society.
Beyond honoring the past, Women’s History Month also highlights the importance of gender equity. When opportunities expand for women, communities grow stronger, workplaces become fairer, and future generations gain greater access to education and opportunity.
At Cerritos College, that spirit of celebration came to life on campus on Wednesday, March 4, when the Associated Students of Cerritos College (ASCC) hosted a Women’s History Month event designed to bring students together in a welcoming and creative environment.
The event offered several interactive activities for students, including a free photo booth, friendship bracelet making, snow cones, and a bloom bar where participants could create their own flower bouquets.
Students simply needed to present their student ID to take part in the festivities. Many began their visit at the bloom bar, selecting colorful flowers to arrange into personalized bouquets. From there, students stopped by the snow cone station to enjoy a sweet treat, choosing from a variety of flavors.
Nearby, the bracelet-making table buzzed with activity as groups of friends crafted bracelets and selected charms to personalize their creations. The event concluded at the photo booth, where students gathered with props to capture memories together. Throughout the afternoon, the space filled with laughter and conversation as students moved from station to station.
Among those attending was Natalie Garcia, a kinesiology major who arrived with a friend. The pair created flower bouquets and enjoyed snow cones while reflecting on what Women’s History Month means to them.
Garcia shared that the month represents a celebration of the women who fought for the rights and opportunities many people enjoy today, including access to higher education. “Even the smallest freedoms matter,” Garcia said, noting that many women today strive not to take those opportunities for granted.
One woman who inspires Garcia is Mabel Fairbank, recognized as the first African American figure skater to achieve national recognition in the sport. Fairbank overcame racial barriers during her career, helping open doors for future generations of athletes. “She is the reason why many people of color can participate in this sport,” Garcia explained.
Garcia described empowerment as overcoming obstacles, pursuing education, and continuing to reach for personal goals. She believes it is especially important for women, particularly women of color, to keep striving for success in today’s society.
Also attending the event was Amanda Monroy, a Political Science major who serves as Student Body President of ASCC. For Monroy, the celebration held special meaning because the student leadership team had been planning the event since November. Monroy said Women’s History Month provides an important opportunity to highlight the accomplishments and leadership of women both on and off campus. One woman who has personally inspired her is Elizabeth “Dean” Miller, the Dean of Student Services at Cerritos College. According to Monroy, Miller has served as a strong mentor who has encouraged her to stand firm in her beliefs while navigating the responsibilities of student leadership. “Dream big, no dream is too big,” Monroy said when asked what advice she would offer other women at Cerritos College. “Don’t let critics stop you. Prove them wrong.”
Monroy also noted that supporting events like these is one meaningful way the college can continue to uplift women and promote equality. By creating spaces where students can connect, express creativity, and reflect on the importance of women’s contributions, events like this help keep the message of Women’s History Month alive. Even a simple afternoon of flowers, bracelets, and photos can serve as a reminder that women’s history is not only something to study it is something still being written every day.
Editor’s Note: This article was adapted and rewritten from an original report by staff writer Jenna Nicole Varela, first published in the Cerritos College student newspaper, Talon Marks.
