Assembly adopts resolution naming March 2025 Women’s History Month; holds Women of the Year ceremony

The California State Assembly on Feb. 11 adopted House Resolution 14, proclaiming March 2025 as Women’s History Month, and then recessed into the Assembly’s California Women of the Year ceremony to recognize 120 honorees from across the state.

Assemblymember Aguiar Curry, the sponsor of the resolution and chair of the Legislative Women’s Caucus, opened debate on HR 14 and framed the measure as a statewide recognition of women’s contributions and remaining disparities. “This month is an opportunity to reflect on the often overlooked contributions of women throughout history, to acknowledge the barriers to our accomplishments and how women persist to rise above to make society in our daily lives better,” Aguiar Curry said on the Assembly floor.

The measure attracted supportive remarks from a range of caucuses. Assemblymember Gonzalez spoke for the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, saying the caucus “honor[s] the lives, contributions, and voices of the women in our nation’s past, present, and future.” Assemblymember Ramos, speaking for the Native American Legislative Caucus, cited Native leaders past and present and urged support for HR 14. Assemblymember Wynne spoke for the Asian American and Pacific Islander Caucus and highlighted women’s labor participation rates; Assemblymember Ransom spoke for the Black Caucus, noting historical figures including Yvonne Burke and Shirley Chisholm. Several other members, including Assemblymembers DeMaio, Bauer-Kahan and Avila Farias, also spoke in support.

The clerk opened the roll for co-authors for the resolution; 78 co-authors were added. With debate ended, the Assembly took a voice vote. “All those in favor, say aye,” the clerk called; “All those opposed, say no.” The ayes were recorded and the resolution was adopted.

After adoption, the Assembly held its annual California Women of the Year ceremony. Members escorted honorees to the front of the chamber in district order; the clerk read biographical sketches for honorees including Gloria Partida (Assembly District 4), Crystal Lamato (Assembly District 29), Jane Garcia (Assembly District 14), and others representing community leaders, educators, nonprofit executives and public officials. The Assembly program described the class as roughly 120 honorees selected for community service, leadership and civic engagement.

The ceremony and the floor debate were strictly ceremonial and honorary: HR 14 is an Assembly resolution marking Women’s History Month rather than creating new legal obligations or appropriating funds.