Originally posted in The Rawlings-Blake Review, Issue #192

The contributions that women have made to society have had—and continue to have—a strong impact on the lives of men, women, and children everywhere. I am honored to celebrate Women’s History Month during March, and to raise a testament to the contributions of women in our nation’s history and in the history of Baltimore City. I am honored because, each and every day, I see the dedication to family, community, and the next generation that these women display. And for this I am inspired to inspire.

Throughout the month, I will honor, applaud, and recognize the inspirational women in Baltimore City—past, present, and future—with programming under the banner of Inspired to Inspire: A Sisterhood of Women.

Earlier this week, I announced the Inspired to Inspire: A Sisterhood of Women city-wide contest. From now until March 19, anyone can nominate the woman who is most inspirational to them. Nominees must be 18 years or older and a resident of Baltimore City.

On the last day of March, I will announce seven of the inspirational women as winners. I will recognize these winners on FOX45, one of the contest sponsors. Winners will also be given a special reception at Fleet Street Kitchen, another contest sponsor. For details on the contest, visit www.baltimorecity.gov/inspired.

In addition to the contest, my Inspired to Inspire: A Sisterhood of Women campaign consists of inspirational events and activities throughout Women’s History Month. Every Monday and Wednesday, I will share a new Inspired to Inspire video with followers on Facebook and Twitter. This week’s videos included a conversation I had with my mom, Dr. Nina Rawlings, as she shared words of wisdom. I am blessed to call her ‘Mom.’

Leslie King-Hammond, founding director of the Center for Race & Culture at MICA, and Dr. Marietta English, president of the Baltimore Teachers Union, rounded out this week’s videos. Have a look and I think you’ll see why I think these are two truly inspirational women. And don’t forget to follow along at twitter.com/mayorsrb and facebook.com/Stephanie.RawlingsBlake for a new video twice a week in March.

We are just one week into March, and I feel incredibly grateful for the inspirational and inspiring women of Baltimore. I am looking forward to the rest of this month’s messages, and I hope you will join me in the spirit of Inspired to Inspire: A Sisterhood of Women.