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Women's history explored throughout March

WBFO News file photo

Women's History Month places the spotlight on those whose contributions may have previously gone unnoticed. Sawrie Becker, commissioner of Office of Public Advocacy with the Erie County Commission on the Status of Women, says women's history offers valuable lessons. "Courage is probably the most important thing. To be willing to take a stand when it may not be the popular thing to do."

Erie County has put together a schedule of events focusing on women's history. On Thursday, recognition was given to Mrs. Constance Eve at a ceremony at the Central Library in Downtown Buffalo. The keynote speech was delivered by Noemi Ghazala, Superintendent of the Women's Rights Historical Park in Seneca Falls.

Though progress has been achieved through the years, Becker believes challenges still exist, including "Economic equity. We've made big strides but there is still a significant pay gap."

"We need more representation in government," Becker said. Decisions are being made regarding the future of women, but not enough women are at the table when those decisions are being made.

"There's a lot of domestic violence,"an issue that Becker says "holds anyone back from reaching their full potential."