At IGN, we're thrilled to celebrate the remarkable women who shape our history and industry, inspiring and empowering change not just during Women's History Month, but all year round. We invite you to join us in learning, celebrating, and amplifying women's voices. Here's everything you need to know about Women's History Month and some fantastic 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 honor the contributions women have made to the United States and acknowledge their achievements across various fields throughout American history. Initially launched as "Women’s History Week" during the week of March 7 in 1982, it evolved into a month-long celebration in 1987. Since 1995, every U.S. President has issued annual proclamations designating March as Women’s History Month.
8 Ways to Celebrate Women's History Month
Learn About Women in History and Share Their Stories
Delve into the inspiring stories of women throughout history by exploring resources like the Smithsonian's archives, StoryCorps, and The History Channel. Suggested reads include "How Women Taught Me to Love and Build Games," "Yoko Shimomura's Story," "Twelve Black Women You Should Know," and "10 Women Inventors You Should Know."
Support Women-Owned Businesses and Professionals
Empower women in business by shopping on platforms like Etsy, using Women Owned Business Directories such as WBD and FoundedByHer, and even filtering for women-owned retailers on Amazon. Additionally, support career growth initiatives like SoundGirls, which fosters networking and professional development for women in the audio industry.
Watch Movies or Shows Featuring Women or Directed by Women
Hulu offers a collection of shows and movies with Black female leads, while Showtime's SHOWTIME WOMEN® celebrates women in front of and behind the camera. Following the 2025 Oscars, catch up on films like "Anora," which won big with lead actress Mikey Madison. Explore more ways to watch "Anora" and discover films directed by women on platforms like Netflix, including hits like "Barbie," "American Psycho," and "The Hurt Locker."
How to Watch AnoraWhat We Said in Our Anora Review
Writer Lex Briscuso noted, "Sean Baker’s hysterical and moving Anora serves up its lead character’s purity of heart on a silver platter, showing us what it means to be let down just when the world seems so full of possibility. In this frank exploration of sex work, class, and the promises we make and break, the director reaches our souls and reminds us life isn’t all it seems to be through a story of outcasts and outsiders."
7 Days FreeHulu Free Trial
67See it at Hulu
Don't miss out on women's sports either. ESPNW covers major sports like NWSL, WNBA, and NCAAW, while justwomenssports.com focuses solely on women's sports. We also highlight WOW (Women of Wrestling), with whom we've partnered and interviewed at events like SDCC. Stream most 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+
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 publishing industry, which saw a 12.3% increase in 2021, generating $29.3 billion. Start with Amazon's top-rated books by women authors or dive into educational lists like "10 Books by Black Women."
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
Play and Discover Women-Led Games
Women have been instrumental in creating some of the most beloved games, from Portal to Celeste, Uncharted, and Centipede. Celeste, in particular, has had a significant cultural impact as one of the most important trans games ever. Explore games created by women through lists like G2A’s and Microsoft's curated collections.Listen to Podcasts Hosted by Women
There's a podcast for every interest, from news to comedy and beyond. NY Public Radio has compiled a list of over 100 women-hosted podcasts. Here are some recommendations from IGN's podcast enthusiasts:
1. You're Wrong About
Sarah, a journalist obsessed with the past, reconsiders a person or event that's been miscast in the public imagination. Listen on Apple.
2. Ladies & Tangents
Jeri and Ciara, besties and cousins, share relatable conversations about companionship, human rights, and more. Listen on Apple.
3. Scam Goddess
Laci Mosley breaks down historic hoodwinks alongside comedians, offering true fun crime without the death. Listen on Apple.
4. Axe of the Blood God
Kat Bailey, Nadia Oxford, and Eric Van Allen explore the world of role-playing games, from Final Fantasy to Skyrim. Listen on Apple.
5. What's Good Games
Andrea Rene, Brittney Brombacher, and Riana Manuel-Peña analyze the latest video game news and offer hands-on impressions. Listen on Apple.
6. My Favorite Murder
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark host this original hit true crime comedy podcast, attracting a growing fan club of "Murderinos." Listen on Apple.
7. This Ends at Prom
BJ Colangelo and Harmony Colangelo analyze the staying power of womanhood in coming-of-age and teen girl movies from queer, feminist, cisgender, and trans perspectives. Listen on Apple.
8. Girlfriend Material
Rosie Turner shares funny stories, cheeky chats, and moving moments in this "Gay-Z" podcast, welcoming 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 people tap into it, suggesting it might only be dormant and in need of nurturing. Listen on Apple.
11. Conversations With Moon Body Soul
Kaitee Tyner discusses holistic wellness, offering inspiration for your self-care journey. Listen on Apple.
