Women's History Month: The Power of Balance in a Changing World
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I find myself reflecting on the journey we've taken toward gender equality and where we still have room to grow. Progress is something to be proud of, but it’s also an invitation to imagine how much further we could go if we fully embraced the equal value of women’s intellect, time, and energy—just as we do for men. It’s a delicate balance, one that could unlock incredible potential for society. And isn't it amazing how much we stand to gain when we share that recognition and appreciation equally?
Lithuania: A Quiet Step Toward Change
Let’s start with a little history, specifically from the heart of Europe. Lithuania, where I call home, was one of the pioneers in granting women the right to vote back in 1918. In the context of the world at the time, it was a bold and significant move, recognizing that women’s voices were just as important in shaping society. While many countries, including Switzerland, took decades longer to extend suffrage to women, Lithuania stood as a beacon of progress—a small but important light in the global movement toward gender equality.
Elections to Lithuania's Constituent Seimas in 1920
What’s intriguing is that Lithuania’s journey has not been perfect. It’s had its challenges, just like many other countries. But in this context, women have historically been seen as equals in the fight for freedom, education, and participation in society. And I think that’s a beautiful thing, especially when we look at how much we’ve grown in the decades since.
The Global Journey: How Far Have We Come?
Globally, there’s no doubt we’ve made strides. Women today have access to careers, education, and political influence like never before. But there’s still work to be done. If we zoom in on women’s contributions to science, for example, figures like Rosalind Franklin and Lise Meitner stand out—women whose vital contributions to the discovery of DNA’s structure and nuclear fission were largely ignored in their time.
Lise Meitner (1878-1968) was an Austrian physicist
But it wasn’t just the women who fought for equal recognition; many men joined them in the effort to challenge these historical biases. John Stuart Mill, a British philosopher, was one of the earliest male advocates for women’s rights. In his essay The Subjection of Women (1869), Mill argued that the social and legal inequalities women faced were harmful to society as a whole, not just to women. His voice, at a time when such ideas were far from mainstream, was a beacon for change—a reminder that gender equality is not just a women's issue, but a human one.
Another key figure is Frederick Douglass, the famous abolitionist. Though best known for his fight to end slavery, Douglass was also a strong ally of the women’s suffrage movement. His public support helped to bridge the gap between the movements for racial and gender equality. And let’s not forget John F. Kennedy, whose administration pushed for major policies that would benefit women, including the Equal Pay Act of 1963, which helped bring some level of economic fairness.
The Quiet Strength of Forgotten Names
History is full of brilliant women whose stories are often left out. Women like Mary McLeod Bethune, a civil rights leader and educator, and Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, whose monumental contributions sometimes feel lost in the shadows. Women like Elsa Schiaparelli, a pioneering fashion designer who revolutionized the way we think about clothing, and Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made female millionaire, whose legacy as an entrepreneur still resonates today.
Schiaparelli (right) in Hyde Park in 1935
What’s fascinating about these women—and others—is how their lives and contributions were often sidelined or diminished. And yet, their work—whether it was shaping the course of scientific discovery, fashion, or social progress—has had a lasting impact. It’s a reminder that when we don’t recognize and appreciate the full scope of someone’s contributions, we miss out on much more than just the individual. We miss out on the collective strength of society.
Why Equal Appreciation Matters
What’s the takeaway here? It’s simple: when society truly appreciates the intellect, time, and energy of both women and men, we unlock the potential for a richer, more vibrant world. In a balanced world, everyone gets a chance to shine—whether it’s in the sciences, in leadership, or in everyday life. Women like Rosalind Franklin and Lise Meitner may not have received the credit they deserved during their time, but their work paved the way for future generations. They didn’t just change science—they changed the world.
It’s important to recognize that the fight for gender equality isn’t just for women. It’s a conversation about fairness and opportunity. It’s about acknowledging that each individual, regardless of gender, deserves equal recognition for their contributions. We all benefit when society encourages the best in all of us, no matter who we are or where we come from.
A Proud Chapter: Son de Flor and the Women Behind It
As I reflect on these milestones and the journey ahead, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride in the path we’ve carved at Son de Flor. As a women-owned business, we’ve built a community full of creative, courageous, and inspiring women who are shaping the world in their own beautiful way.
Iconic Paula Sutton (@hillhousevintage) wearing Son de Flor Dress
The women in the Son de Flor community—from our team to the incredible customers and partners we’ve connected with—are the heartbeat of this brand. Each woman brings her unique perspective, energy, and drive, shaping this business and the world around us in ways that make me beyond proud. It's not just about the clothes we create; it’s about the values we hold dear—values that are rooted in empowerment, respect, and a shared desire to create positive change. Every day, we get to be part of something that celebrates creativity, individuality, and, above all, a fierce determination to make a difference. It’s an honor to stand alongside so many women who are making their mark in such a meaningful way.
Looking Toward the Future
As we reflect on Women’s History Month, let’s think about how we can contribute to a more balanced future. Imagine a world where both women and men are equally recognized for their talents, ideas, and actions. A world where gender doesn’t determine someone’s worth or their opportunities. We’re not there yet—but we can get closer every day, one step at a time.
As a society, we’ve learned that the best ideas, the greatest solutions, and the brightest futures come from a diversity of perspectives. And that, my friends, is what true progress looks like. It’s about balance, fairness, and an equal appreciation for every individual’s contributions. When we achieve this, we unlock something extraordinary.
Here’s to the women who’ve paved the way, the men who’ve stood by them, and to all of us—working together for a future where everyone has a seat at the table.
