March Observances: Leadership, Equality, and Renewal

March invites us to reflect on leadership, equality, renewal, and visibility. From honoring the contributions of women throughout history to celebrating Greek and Irish American heritage, welcoming the arrival of spring, and uplifting transgender voices, this month reminds us that progress is shaped by courage, community, and collective action.

At Verity, these observances connect directly to our commitment to financial empowerment, equity, and long-term community sustainability. They highlight the leaders and traditions that continue to shape a more resilient and inclusive future.

Month-long Observances & Celebrations

Women’s History Month

Every March, the U.S. recognizes Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. As shared by the National Women’s History Museum, the month is set aside to honor women’s contributions to American history.

Women’s History Month began as a local celebration in Santa Rosa, California. In 1978, the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women launched a “Women’s History Week” to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8. The movement quickly spread nationwide.

In 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. By 1987, Congress passed Public Law 100-9 officially designating March as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, each U.S. president has issued annual proclamations recognizing the month.

The National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) selects the annual theme. The 2026 theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”

This year’s theme expands sustainability beyond environmental concerns. It includes financial sustainability, community resilience, leadership succession, and intergenerational equity. From advancing economic justice to strengthening education systems and civic engagement, women are designing blueprints for long-term and sustainable transformation.

The theme recognizes that today’s global challenges — economic insecurity, healthcare disparities, climate change, and threats to democratic participation — are interconnected. Women, especially from marginalized communities, often experience these impacts most intensely. Yet they are also the ones leading solutions that build more equitable systems.

Learn more and download the 2026 theme materials through the NWHA website.

Greek American Heritage Month

Greek American Heritage Month celebrates the cultural, civic, and intellectual contributions of Greek Americans.

The Greek America Foundation was founded to move beyond stereotypes and elevate the ideals at the heart of Greek heritage: philotimo (literally meaning “love of honor”), philanthropy, duty, excellence, and innovation. The organization’s mission emphasizes meaningful impact across communities in the United States, Canada, Greece, and beyond.

Irish American Heritage Month

Irish American Heritage Month honors the generations of Irish Americans who have contributed to the nation’s growth in public service, labor movements, arts, and community leadership.

The National Archives highlights the historical significance of Irish immigration and the resilience of Irish communities navigating discrimination while shaping American civic life. The observance coincides with St. Patrick’s Day on March 17.

Explore additional history and programming through the Irish American Heritage Museum, which preserves and shares the story of Irish contributions to American society.

Events & Day Observances

March 8 — International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality.

According to the International Women’s Day website, the movement has existed for more than a century and belongs to everyone committed to advancing gender parity. Its mission is to forge great impact by elevating visibility and support gender equality focused nonprofits worldwide.

The United Nations theme for 2026 is “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.” As shared on the UN Women website, women worldwide currently hold only 64 percent of the legal rights afforded to men across areas that include work, pay, safety, property, business, and retirement.

The UN will host its annual commemoration on March 9 at 10 a.m. (New York time), available via UN Web TV. The event precedes the opening of the Commission on the Status of Women, the UN’s largest annual forum on gender equality.

March 3–4 — Holi

Holi, often called the “Festival of Colors,” celebrates spring, connection, and the triumph of good over evil. As shared by the Indian Express, in 2026 Holika Dahan will be observed on Tuesday, March 3, followed by Rangwali Holi on Wednesday, March 4.

Holi’s origins trace back to Hindu mythology, including the story of Prahlad and Holika, symbolizing devotion and justice prevailing over evil. The lighting of the Holika Dahan bonfire marks renewal and protection, while Rangwali Holi celebrates joy, unity, and the arrival of spring with colorful powders and water.

Beyond its mythological roots, Holi represents reconciliation, social unity, forgiveness, and community gathering.

March 20 — Vernal Equinox

The Vernal Equinox marks the official beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. In 2026, the first day of spring falls on March 20 at 10:46 a.m. EDT. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the equinox represents the moment when day and night are nearly equal in length. For many cultures, it symbolizes renewal, growth, and increasing light.

The changing season reminds us that progress often unfolds gradually, with each day bringing incremental light and new possibility.

March 31 — International Transgender Day of Visibility

International Transgender Day of Visibility honors the resilience and contributions of transgender and non-binary people while raising awareness of ongoing discrimination and violence.

As shared by the Human Rights Campaign, approximately 3.3 million transgender adults live in the United States. Trans and non-binary individuals are part of every community, representing diverse racial, familial, ethnic, and faith backgrounds.

While visibility has increased in recent years, significant legal and social challenges remain. The day calls for celebration, education, and collective action to combat misinformation and discrimination.

Learn more about advocacy and educational resources through GLSEN, which supports safe and respectful learning environments for youth of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.

Community Events with Verity

Verity is committed to showing up for our members and communities every month. As a certified CDFI, we partner with historically underserved communities to build pathways to generational wealth and long-term financial well-being. Stay connected for upcoming opportunities to learn, volunteer, and engage with local partners honoring heritage, service, and community.

We acknowledge that we may not have listed every celebration or observance important to you and your community. If you have a suggestion for inclusion, please email feedback@veritycu.com.