Business Women’s Day

American Business Women’s Day is celebrated on September 22 every year. It is a special day dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in the business world.

This date marks the founding of the American Business Women’s Association in 1949, a key organization that supports women’s professional growth and achievements​​.

The day is important for several reasons. First, it honors the legacy and hard work of more than 68 million working women and 7.7 million women business owners in the United States.

It recognizes their vital role in the economy and their contributions to various industries​. Additionally, it shines a light on the need for equal opportunities and rights for women in the workplace, advocating for their growth, leadership, and national recognition​​.

American Business Women’s Day also serves as a reminder of the progress made and the challenges that still exist for women in business.

It encourages support for women entrepreneurs and professionals, highlighting the fact that women own 36% of small businesses worldwide, with a significant impact on the economy and society​​.

Celebrating this day involves acknowledging the hard work of women in business and promoting further inclusion and advancement in the professional world​.

History of American Business Women’s Day

American Business Women’s Day has its roots in a significant gathering back in 1949 in Kansas City.

This was when Hilary Bufton Jr., alongside Shirley Cupp, Irma Beisel, and Frances Stuckey, decided to create the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA).

Their goal was clear from the start: to offer support and growth opportunities for women across various professions.

They believed in breaking barriers and advocating for equal rights and pay in the workplace. This vision was encapsulated in the founding of ABWA on September 22, marking the celebration of American Business Women’s Day.

The day was officially recognized years later, in the early 1980s, through Congressional resolutions and proclamations by President Ronald Reagan.

These formal acknowledgments in 1983 and 1986 highlighted the crucial contributions of over 68 million working women and 7.7 million women business owners in America​​.

The celebration transcends just commemorating the past; it’s about encouraging present and future generations of women to pursue and excel in their business endeavors.

Over time, American Business Women’s Day has become a platform for networking, mentorship, and celebrating the achievements of women in the business world.

It’s not only about looking back at the progress made but also pushing forward for greater inclusion, equality, and recognition in the business sector.

This day is a testament to the indelible impact of women in shaping the business landscape and a reminder of the ongoing journey toward gender equality in professional spaces​​.

How to Celebrate American Business Women’s Day

Here are some playful and quirky suggestions on how to celebrate American Business Women’s Day:

Rally the Troops

Gather your squad, both men and women and plan a local meet-up or online hangout. Celebrate by sharing stories of the business mavens who inspire you.

Think of it as a book club but for business legends. Don’t forget to sprinkle in tales of your triumphs and challenges.

Job Swap Game

Why not play musical chairs with jobs? Switch roles with a colleague for a few hours or shadow a female leader in your company. It’s like “Freaky Friday,” but for business insights.

You’ll walk a mile in their shoes, gaining a fresh perspective and newfound appreciation for the roles women play in your workplace.

Social Media Shout-outs

Flood the digital world with positivity. Spotlight the phenomenal businesswomen in your life or those you admire from afar on your social media platforms.

Use the hashtag #AmericanBusinessWomensDay, and let the virtual love spread like wildfire. Bonus points for creating fun, shareable content like memes or short videos celebrating their achievements.

DIY Mentorship Mixer

Host a mini mentorship event. Invite experienced businesswomen and those just starting on their path to a relaxed, informal gathering.

It could be a coffee morning or a virtual speed networking session. It’s all about making connections, sharing wisdom, and lifting each other. Picture it as speed dating, but the only commitment is to empowerment and growth.

Remember, celebrating American Business Women’s Day is all about creativity, support, and empowerment.

Each action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger goal of achieving gender equality in the business world​.