2011 Theme - Our History is Our Strength

Our shared history unites families, communities, and nations.  Although women’s history is intertwined with the history shared with men, several factors - social, religious, economic, and biological - have worked to create a unique sphere of women's history. 

The stories of women’s achievements are integral to the fabric of our history.  Learning about women’s tenacity, courage, and creativity throughout the centuries is a tremendous source of strength.  Until relatively recently, this sphere of women's history was overlooked and undervalued. Women’s achievements were often distorted, disdained, and denied.  But, knowing women’s stories provides essential role models for everyone. And role models are genuinely needed to face the extraordinary changes and unrelenting challenges of the 21st century.

Here are 10 quotes to inspire you to keep going.

You don’t become what you want; you become what you believe.
Oprah Winfrey

You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.
Maya Angelou 

Sometimes you’ve got to let everything go—purge yourself . . . If you are unhappy with anything . . . whatever is bringing you down, get rid of it. Because you’ll find that when you’re free, your true creativity, your true self comes out.
Tina Turner

Don’t settle for average. Bring your best to the moment. Then, whether it fails or succeeds, at least you know you gave all you had. We need to live the best that’s in us.
Angela Bassett 

I really don’t think life is about the I-could-have-beens. Life is only about the I-tried-to-do. I don’t mind the failure but I can’t imagine that I’d forgive myself if I didn’t try. 
Nikki Giovanni 

I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminshes fear.
Rosa Parks

Whatever we believe about ourselves and our ability comes true for us. 
Susan L. Taylor 

Just don’t give up what you’re trying to do. Where there is Love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong. 
Ella Fitzgerald

When I dare to be powerful – to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid. 
Audre Lorde 

Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us. 
Wilma Rudolph