Every year during the month of March, we celebrate Women’s History Month, a designated time to honor the specific contributions of women to American history and society. This is the 45th year of Women’s History Month observance, which began as a weeklong celebration of women teachers in Sonoma County in 1978 and became an official Presidential proclamation (first as a week and then as a month) in 1980.
I feel so incredibly lucky to have a number of female role models and mentors to look up to, including my incredible mom and mother-in-law who worked for many decades as school teachers. Growing up, my amazing cantor, Stephen Richards, was the person who taught me Jewish music and planted the first seeds for my own curiosity about the cantorial arts, but it wasn’t until we hired a young woman, Rabbi Cantor Jennie Chabon, to work at my home synagogue that I could really see myself stepping into the role that has become my most fulfilling calling and my great personal joy (most especially because I am here at Wise).
To all of the women who inspire us personally and professionally—may we honor them this month and express gratitude for their hard work, dedication, and inspirational efforts. During the Shabbat blessings every week, Adam offers me the special blessing “Eshet Chayil–Woman of Valor” (Proverbs 31). While I’ve seen some translations of Eshet Chayil that are a bit dated, I love this version from our Reform prayer book, Mishkan Tefillah (there is also a lovely family blessing for man/husband there, as well).
A woman of valor, seek her out; she is to be valued above rubies.
She opens her hand to those in need and extends her help to the poor.
Adorned with strength and dignity, she faces the future cheerfully.
Her speech is wise; the law of kindness is on her lips.
Those who love her rise up with praise and call her blessed:
“Many have done well, but you surpass them all.”
Charm is deceptive and beauty short-lived, but a woman loyal to God has truly earned praise.
Honor her for all her offerings; her life proclaims her praise.
I hope that you will find an opportunity today, this week, this month to bless and thank the women of valor who make your life better, easier, more enriched, more sweet.
Happy Women’s History Month and shavuah tov!
— Cantor Emma Lutz