During this uncommon year, people find comfort in the ability to continue to celebrate holidays and important events - even in a different, new normal, way. One holiday that we like to celebrate every day at simoneink is Women’s History Month - which is deserving of more than just a one-month long commemoration. As I began my career in media relations on a corporate level in 1988, I knew that I wanted to be a voice and advocate for women within the industry and beyond. For 22 years, simoneink has been an independent, women-driven company that has been dedicated to the success of our clients within the hospitality industry.
In looking at all of the influential and inspiring women throughout history, it’s hard not to be amazed. One woman, in particular, that I admire is First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt - I share a deep appreciation for her humanitarian efforts as an advocate for equality of women and civil rights. Though mighty and dominant in all of her accomplishments, Eleanor led with grace and a humble attitude. She found ways to be diplomatic even in going against the grain, which allowed for her message to be heard by more than those with just a willingness to listen. Known as a spokeswoman of civil rights for African Americans, as well as for her campaigning for equality and fair opportunities for American workers, the poor, young people, and women during the Great Depression - Eleanor knew what it took to make an impression.
Her focus on equal human rights and her active and dedicated nature in the face of its challengers allowed her to gain the respect of others. While her work began early on, it was amplified when she was appointed by President Harry Truman after World War II to be part of the first US delegation to the United Nations, where she later went on to chair the Human Rights Committee. During her time as a delegate to the UN, Eleanor oversaw the drafting and adoption of the Universal Human Declaration of Rights - which she considered as one of her most significant achievements, and is to this day a model for how people and nations should peacefully engage with one another. The delivery of her most famous speech in September 1948 on “The Struggle for Human Rights,” ultimately led to the formal adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. Eleanor stated, “The basic problem confronting the world today… is the preservation of human freedom for the individual and consequently for the society of which he is a part.”
As a female business owner, daughter, sister, and mother - I am inspired by fierce, humble, and dedicated women who uphold strong values, like Eleanor Roosevelt. She did not waver in the face of adversity and rose to the occasion when she saw a desperate need for change. During National Women’s Month, we highlight these women and their accomplishments.
Factoid: Roosevelt wrote 27 books and more than 8,000 columns.