March is Women’s History Month—a time dedicated to recognizing the countless contributions women have made throughout history, across various fields. From politics and science to the arts and beyond, the stories of women often go untold or under-appreciated. But March provides an opportunity to change that narrative, honoring the legacy of those who have fought for equality and justice, while also shining a light on the issues that remain.

I always start by looking back on the trailblazers who have come before me. It’s important for me to remember the dirt paths that were later paved and the trees that were cut back to lay the road for me to get to the State House. One of my favorite quotes is by Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman to be elected to Congress and to run for a presidential nomination. Chisholm faced racial and gender-based discrimination at every turn, yet she refused to be silenced or sidelined: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” Her groundbreaking political career, marked by resilience, courage, and a steadfast commitment to justice, provides a timeless example of leadership that continues to inspire future generations.

I’m also reminded of the long and hard-fought battle for women’s suffrage. This includes the courageous women who braved violence and opposition to their steadfast activism beginning in the United States at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848. Over 120 years later, a young attorney by the name of Ruth Bader Ginsburg emerged as a pioneering force for gender equality. Her work, which led her to become one of the first women to sit on the Supreme Court, helped dismantle systemic barriers and paved the way for greater legal protections for women, particularly in areas like employment and education. Ginsburg’s efforts in the 1970s laid the foundation for the transformative strides in women’s rights that followed, solidifying her place as one of the most influential figures in the fight for gender equality.

Fast forward to 2022, the Maine House of Representatives elected its first leadership team made up entirely of women, including former Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross, who also was the first African American woman elected Speaker of the House, House Majority Leader Maureen Terry (a fellow Gorham resident!), and Assistant House Majority Leader Kristen Cloutier. The Maine Senate followed suit this year by electing their first slate of all-female leadership, including Senate President Mattie Daughtry, Senate Majority Leader Teresa Pierce, and Assistant Senate Majority Leader Jill Duson, who was the first African American woman elected to the Maine Senate.

Looking back, we’ve made much progress, but celebrating trailblazers like these isn’t enough. While it’s an honor to be the first Japanese-American woman elected to the Maine State Legislature, I do not want to be the last.

That’s why I’m proud to be a cosponsor – alongside 96 of my colleagues – of LD 260, a constitutional amendment that would establish that all Mainers have equal rights under the law. The bill addresses important issues such as gender discrimination, healthcare access for women, and the ongoing battle for equal pay. The timing of its introduction in Women’s History Month couldn’t be more fitting, as it highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality and how much work remains to ensure that women, no matter where they live, can thrive equally in every aspect of life.

The fight for women’s rights is far from over. As we honor Women’s History Month, we must keep pushing forward, continuing the work done by those who came before us. Women’s history, or herstory, isn’t just about remembering the past; it’s about shaping a future where every woman’s voice is heard, valued, and empowered.

I encourage you to reach out to me any time with concerns about issues you care about, questions on policy or legislation, ideas on ways to better our community, or even just to introduce yourself. I hope to continue the conversations I began last summer, so please do not hesitate to email me at ellie.sato@ legislature.maine.gov, or call the House Democratic Office at 207-287-1430.

Rep. Ellie Sato, D-Gorham, is serving her first term in the Maine House of Representatives.