Dear Ebell Members,
As we spring into the blossoming days of April, I want to take a moment to reflect on our recent celebration of Women’s History Month at The Ebell. From Amy Simon’s one-woman show, She’s History, to our Juried Art Show, A Woman’s Place, and first annual symposium of The Ebell Institute for the Study of Women’s History in Los Angeles, The Ebell brought to center stage last month the accomplishments, contributions and creativity of women in our community. In addition to enjoying the series of inspiring women-focused performances, discussions and art, I hope you also noticed The Ebell’s historic building aglow in purple lighting, the designated color for Women’s History Month!
Although every month is Women’s History Month at The Ebell, the month of March is a time to deepen our focus and honor the countless contributions that women, including many of our own past and present members, have made in shaping our city, society, culture, and world.
Last month served as a reminder of the remarkable achievements and strides made by women in various fields, from science and technology to arts and literature, from politics and activism to business and entrepreneurship. It was a time to acknowledge the resilience, creativity, and determination of women, not unlike our own Ebell founders, who have broken barriers, challenged norms, and paved the way for future generations.
At The Ebell, we are proud to be part of a community that values and uplifts the voices and experiences of women. Our organization has a rich history of supporting women’s education, empowerment, and leadership, and we continue, all year long, to strive towards creating an inclusive and equitable environment for our members and beyond. We are a testament to the power of women joining together to affect positive change.
I encourage each of you to continue to learn more about the remarkable women who have shaped history, to celebrate the achievements of women of The Ebell and in your own lives, and to reaffirm our commitment to building a more just and equitable world for all.
I also hope that you will learn more about our new initiative, The Ebell Institute for the Study of Women’s History in Los Angeles (The Ebell Institute or TEI for short). Inspired by our 130-year archives, The Ebell Institute is dedicated to preserving and promoting the often-overlooked legacy of women in Los Angeles by spotlighting the untold stories of the women whose achievements have influenced the cultural landscape of our city. The Ebell Institute will focus on six major initiatives:
- An annual, free public symposium dedicated to the study of women’s history in Los Angeles; the inaugural symposium took place on March 27, 2024
- The employment of an artist and a scholar in residence
- Open access to The Ebell’s historic collections
- The “Living Herstory” project offering free, historical matinees to local elementary schools
- Free public docent-led tours of The Ebell’s historic campus and gardens
- An oral history project dedicated to chronicling and protecting the lesser-known stories of women in Los Angeles
I eagerly anticipate the adventures we will embark upon together in the coming months. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to The Ebell; let us continue to honor and celebrate the legacy of women not just in March, but throughout the entire year.
With affection,
Laurie
