At IGN, we're thrilled to honor and celebrate women who shape our history and industry, driving positive change throughout the year. Join us in learning, celebrating, and amplifying women's voices as we delve into Women's History Month and discover exciting ways to celebrate this March.
The History Behind Women's History Month
Women's History Month originated from a petition by the National Women’s History Project in 1987, aiming to celebrate the significant contributions women have made to the United States and acknowledge their achievements across various fields. Initially starting as "Women’s History Week" in 1982, it expanded to a month-long celebration in 1987. Since 1995, every President has issued annual proclamations designating March as Women’s History Month, ensuring its continued recognition.
TL;DR - 8 Ways to Celebrate Women's History Month
- Learn About Women in History and Share Their Stories
- Support Women-Owned Businesses and Professionals
- Watch Movies or Shows Directed by Women
- Read Books Written by Women Authors
- Play Games Created by Women
- Listen to Podcasts Featuring Women
- Volunteer at Women-Based Organizations
- Donate to Programs and Organizations Uplifting Women
1. Learn About Women in History and Share Their Stories
Dive into the fascinating world of women's contributions through history by exploring resources like the Smithsonian, StoryCorps, and The History Channel. These platforms offer rich archives and stories of women as inventors, leaders, and more. For deeper insights, consider these reads:
- How Women Taught Me to Love and Build Games
- Yoko Shimomura's Story: The Composer of Kingdom Hearts, Super Mario RPG, and More Wins Game Developers Choice Award for Lifetime Achievement
- Twelve Black Women You Should Know
- 10 Women Inventors You Should Know
2. Support Women-Owned Businesses and Professionals
Support women in business by shopping from platforms like Etsy and directories such as WBD and FoundedByHer, or filter for women-owned retailers on Amazon. Additionally, empower women in their professional journeys by engaging with organizations like SoundGirls, which offers networking and support in the audio industry. Don't miss out on recognizing women's achievements in comic book writing with 14 Great Women Comic Book Writers.
3. Watch Movies or Shows Featuring Women or Directed by Women
Explore Hulu's collection of shows and movies with Black female leads or dive into Showtime's SHOWTIME WOMEN® network, celebrating women in front of and behind the camera. Following the 2025 Oscars, catch up on hits like Anora, featuring lead actress Mikey Madison.
How to Watch Anora
What We Said in Our Anora Review
Writer Lex Briscuso praised "Sean Baker’s hysterical and moving Anora," highlighting its profound exploration of sex work, class, and the human condition. For those interested, a Hulu free trial offers a chance to watch this acclaimed film.
7 Days Free
Hulu Free Trial
67See it at Hulu
For more ways to watch Anora, check out additional platforms.
Discover Women Directors
Celebrate films directed by women, including hits like Barbie, American Psycho, and The Hurt Locker. Streaming services like Netflix provide easy access to these movies.
Watch Women's Sports
Where to Buy Play It Forward
Stay updated with women's sports through ESPNW, covering NWSL, WNBA, NCAAW, and more. For a dedicated focus on women's sports, visit justwomenssports.com. We're proud to partner with Women of Wrestling (WOW), and you can find streaming details here. With women's sports on the rise, catch major events on:
ESPN+
10Sign up for a standalone ESPN+ subscription or as part of the Disney Bundle that includes Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu. See it at ESPN+
4. Read Books Written by Women
With women publishing over 50% of all books since 2020, there's a wealth of literature to explore. According to BookRiot, the rise in books by women has boosted the industry by 12.3% in 2021, generating $29.3 billion. Dive into diverse genres with top-rated books by women authors on Amazon.
Best-Selling Books by Women Authors
0Browse Amazon's most popular best sellers based on sales and updated frequently. From Kindle Editions to paperback. See it at Amazon
5. Play and Discover Women-Led Games
Women have been behind some of the most beloved games, from Portal to Celeste, Uncharted to Centipede. Celebrate their contributions with games like Celeste, which has made a significant cultural impact. Available on Nintendo.com for $19.99, this game offers a charming adventure. Explore the underrepresentation of women in the industry with insights from 55 female and non-binary game development professionals. For more recommendations, check out lists from G2A, Microsoft, and other platforms featuring games created and curated by women.6. Listen to Podcasts Hosted by Women
Dive into a wide range of podcasts hosted by women, covering everything from news and history to comedy and true crime. NY Public Radio's list of over 100 women-hosted podcasts is a great starting point. Here are some standout recommendations from IGN's podcast enthusiasts:
1. You're Wrong About
Sarah, a journalist obsessed with the past, reconsiders events and people misrepresented in the public imagination. Listen on Apple.
2. Ladies & Tangents
Jeri and Ciara, best friends and cousins, share relatable conversations on companionship and human rights. Listen on Apple.
3. Scam Goddess
Laci Mosley explores historic scams and hoodwinks with comedians, offering "true fun crime." Listen on Apple.
4. Axe of the Blood God
Join Kat Bailey, Nadia Oxford, and Eric Van Allen as they delve into the world of RPGs, from Final Fantasy to Skyrim. Listen on Apple.
5. What's Good Games
Andrea Rene, Brittney Brombacher, and Riana Manuel-Peña discuss the latest video game news and provide hands-on impressions. Listen on Apple.
6. My Favorite Murder
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark host this hit true crime comedy podcast, welcoming listeners into the "Murderinos" fan club. Listen on Apple.
7. This Ends At Prom
BJ and Harmony Colangelo analyze coming-of-age and teen girl movies from queer, feminist, and trans perspectives. Listen on Apple.
8. Girlfriend Material
Rosie Turner's "Gay-Z" podcast offers funny stories and moving moments for everyone on their LGBTQ+ journey. Listen on Apple.
9. A Little Queer
Capri and Ashley dive into queer culture, advice, and media, becoming your new BFFs. Listen on Apple.
10. The Artist In Me Is Dead
Rhonda Willers explores creativity and how to nurture it back to life with guests every Thursday. Listen on Apple.
11. Conversations With Moon Body Soul
Kaitee Tyner discusses holistic wellness, offering inspiration for self-care enthusiasts. Listen on Apple.
