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Women's History Month is a great time to pay tribute to the female leaders and forebears who paved the way for those who would follow.
And while certain names stand out in history, there are plenty of unsung or lesser-known heroes who've made significant contributions to both Utah and the nation at large.
Heart of Minky: Bringing comfort to infants and families
After Minky Couture owner Sandi Hendry's grandson was born prematurely, she was determined to share luxury and comfort with as many NICU families as she could and so The Heart of Minky program was created. Minky Couture continues its long-standing pledge to donate a mini-size Minky blanket each time an adult size blanket is purchased.When it comes to highlighting incredible Utah women, it's difficult to whittle the choices down to just a few. This list is by no means comprehensive, so if you'd like to learn more about these women—and many more—who left their mark in the Beehive State and beyond, visit utahwomenshistory.org.
Here's just a quick look at some impressive Utah women who accomplished great things:
- Seraph Young. Last year marked the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment, and the very first vote cast by a woman was right here in Utah by Seraph Young.
- Fanny Brooks. The first Jewish woman to settle in Utah, Fanny Brooks was a highly influential member of Salt Lake's community and an excellent businesswoman. She was instrumental in developing positive relations between the Latter-day Saints and the Jewish community.
- Alberta Hill Henry. Civil rights activist Alberta Hill Henry was the longtime president of the Salt Lake NAACP. She devoted her life to fighting for equal education opportunities and fairness for all.
- Elizabeth "Lizzie" Austin Taylor. As a journalist and an activist, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Austin Taylor spent her life fighting the economic, social, and family concerns affecting Black women.
- Alice Kasai. Hopeful and optimistic in the face of hatred and bigotry, Alice Kasai was a lifelong advocate for Japanese Americans and other minority groups.
- Maude Adams. A gifted actress of her time, Maude Adams was famous for originating the role of Peter Pan on Broadway. She was also an uncredited inventor who helped create a large incandescent lamp to give better lighting to film and stage productions.
- Barbara Toomer. After polio left her confined to a wheelchair, Barbara Toomer became a prolific advocate for disability rights.
- Esther Peterson. Her fierce advocacy for consumer and worker rights earned Esther Peterson the nickname "nanny to the world." She worked with four U.S. presidents and helped pass over 100 pieces of consumer legislation.
You might have already heard about some or all of these women, but how well do you think you know them? Take the quiz to find out! Be sure to enter your email address for a chance to win a Minky Couture blanket!
