MOMS ON THE RUN

Indira Ghandi, the first and only prime minister of India. Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross. Jackie Joyner-Kersee, deemed the "first lady" of track and field and one of the all-time greatest athletes in the heptathlon. These, and many other women, have changed history. 

March is Women's History Month in the U.S., UK and Australia. While it began with a single day — International Women's Day on March 8 — it has been observed in some shape or form since 1911. It was officially commemorated by the United Nations in 1975 and signed into proclamation by President Jimmy Carter. As with Black History Month, organizers for Women's History Month wanted to ensure future generations will inherit an accurate account of the contributions of women throughout history. By highlighting women who have made a difference in history, it opens up that world of possibilities to young girls.

Following is a short list of notable women we found at Scholastic.com who have been an influence in history. There are many others we could add to the list. Who has inspired you?

Imagine moving across the world to a foreign country, where you are not fluent in the language nor know many people. Jacksonville (FL) Moms on the Run member Mariko DeMeyer did just that 15 years ago, when she moved from Japan to the United States. She says people had a hard time understanding her English and she often felt embarrassed, so she isolated herself, never considering the idea of joining any American groups or clubs — until she saw a Moms on the Run ad on Facebook. What happened next surprised even her. Read more of Mariko's story and learn why she's our inspiring member of the month.