Remembering Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter
Rosalynn Carter, wife of former President Jimmy Carter, died on November 19, 2023. She was 96 years old. She and the president had been married 77 years. Rosalynn (pronounced ROSE-a-lynn) Carter greatly expanded the role of First Lady of the United States during her husband’s presidency. She fought fiercely for mental health reform, women’s rights, […]
The March on Washington’s 60th Anniversary
Tens of thousands of people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington. D.C., on Sunday, August 27, 2023, for the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington. The event was organized jointly by the National Action Network and the Drum Major Institute. The goal of the event was to call attention to the ongoing struggle […]
Earth Day 2023: “Invest in Our Planet”
Saturday, April 22, 2023, is Earth Day—a day to focus on the ongoing worldwide environmental movement. Earth Day began in 1970, when thousands of colleges and communities across the United States came together to protest industrial practices that created pollution and threatened the health and safety of people and the environment. Fifty-three years later, more […]
Women’s History Month: A Women’s Suffrage Memorial on the National Mall
In 1920, Congress passed the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which granted white women the right to vote in the United States. The journey to get there was long and difficult–and often unrecognized. But that’s about to change, as Congress begins the process of creating a monument honoring women’s suffrage, or the right to vote, on […]
Senate Acts After Train Derailment
A train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed last month in eastern Ohio. U.S. senators have introduced a new rail safety bill to prevent future railroad disasters and held a hearing to learn more about the incident. Details continue to emerge about the environmental and health impacts on the community. Here, btw takes a closer look at the accident, […]
Recognizing Women with Place Names: Five Canadian Mountains
Have you ever noticed that most geographical locations are named after men? While the number of men and women are relatively equal, there are fewer geographical locations named after women. When you eliminate the categories of Christian saints, Greek goddesses, and queens, even fewer landmarks are named to honor women. A lack of women-inspired place […]
Women’s History Month: The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum
In December 2020, Congress approved funding for the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum. This museum will honor American women’s accomplishments, their histories, and the communities they represent. While the museum organization has hosted many online and in-person events and programs, the physical museum hasn’t been constructed yet. The website for the museum says that it […]
Black History Month: Rev. Frederick Douglas Reese
Have you ever heard of Rev. Frederick Douglas Reese? If not, you aren’t alone. In fact, not many Americans are familiar with F.D. Reese, even though he was a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement and worked for a more just and equal society alongside icons such as John Lewis and Dr. Martin Luther […]
Questions Raised After Deadly Earthquakes in Syria and Turkey
On February 6, 2023, at 4:17 a.m. local time, a powerful earthquake rocked southeastern Turkey and northern Syria. Nine hours later, another quake that was nearly as strong hit farther north in Turkey. As a result, more than 35,000 people died, thousands were injured, and countless more have been left homeless. Questions have been raised […]
Remembering Dr. Carter G. Woodson: Creator of Black History Month
Dr. Carter Woodson was a distinguished teacher, writer, and historian. Woodson is known as the “father of Black history” because he dedicated his life to the teaching and celebration of African American history. He helped establish the annual celebration of Black History Month in February. Here, btw takes a closer look at his life and achievements. Woodson’s […]