March marks National Women's History Month Published March 1, 2007 By Lynn Emond 22nd Air Refueling Wing sexual assault response coordinator MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- In the early 19th century, women were considered second-class citizens whose existence was limited to the interior life of the home and care of the children. Women were considered sub-sets of their husbands, and, after marriage, they did not have the right to own property, maintain their wages or sign a contract, much less vote. It was considered improper for women to travel alone or to speak in public. The roots for the Women's Rights movement were planted firmly on July 19, 1848 in Seneca Falls, N.Y., when the First Women's Rights Convention was held. Women realized then, as they do now, that they have an enormous amount to offer to science, math, aviation, politics, the military, and the family. It is in recognition of the significant achievements that women have made throughout our civilization that March is designated as Women's History Month. The 2007 theme for this celebration is "Generations of Women Moving History Forward." Throughout the month, women who have contributed to the development of our great nation will be highlighted in the e-Contrails. These articles will demonstrate how women are continually moving history forward and providing significant contributions to man/woman kind. In addition, "bring your own" brown-bag luncheons will be held Mondays and Wednesdays throughout the month from 11 a.m. to noon in honor of Women's History Month. On Mondays, the luncheons will be at the chapel annex, Bldg. 519, and on Wednesdays they will be held in the finance building, Bldg. 750, Room 201. Movies will be shown during the lunches. Movie selections include: "Fly Girls," "Women at War", "A Century of Women: Work and Family" and "History of Women's Achievement in America." Come for discussion and to celebrate women's history. (Information provided by www.history.com)