All ladies are first on International Women's Day
It’s International Women’s Day, a day that didn’t always hold historical significance on a worldwide stage. Today, we celebrate the profound impact women have had on shaping our world through their voices and experiences.
What a sweet surprise to see my book among those by other women authors at The Gilded Page bookstore in Tarpon Springs, about 45 minutes from my home in St. Petersburg, Florida. Look closely, and you’ll see American Woman by Katie Rogers. I’m about halfway through it and really enjoying it.
I used to laugh when others addressed me as “First Lady.” Is there really a First Lady of a city? I would tell anyone who gave me that title: “There’s only one First Lady, and that’s Michelle Obama.” She was First Lady when Rick was first elected mayor in 2013.
American Woman is a historical recounting of more recent First Ladies, from Laura Bush to Jill Biden. There’s always some level of partisanship in politics, but the people behind the politician, often a First Lady or political spouse on another level, share the same struggles.
Reading the stories of these women, remarkable in their own ways, reveals commonalities in expectations, assumptions, and challenges that anyone who is thrust into the public eye encounters. These women have been widely covered in the media during their husband’s 10 years, but as is always the case, there are the stories we never hear about, especially their accomplishments. Politics may have upended their lives, but they chose to dig in, rise to the occasion to support their spouses’ aspirations, while creating their own unique brand.
Throughout history, women have harnessed the power of their voices to effect profound change, advocate for marginalized communities, and champion inclusivity. In a world where patriarchal norms often prioritize male voices, women have persisted in sharing their narratives, challenging societal norms, and reshaping the discourse.
Aspiring authors, particularly women, often grapple with doubts about the relevance of their stories. Like many, I questioned whether my voice mattered. As a political spouse for over two decades, my identity was overshadowed by my husband's public persona. People turned to him for answers, opinions, and guidance, relegating me to the role of a supportive partner, unseen and unheard.
Even after his political tenure ended, I found myself confined to the sidelines, viewed as a mere volunteer at the nonprofit where I dedicated years of service. Fearful of scrutiny and criticism, I silenced my voice, afraid that speaking out would disrupt the status quo and invite unwanted attention.
It wasn't until a friend encouraged me to write my memoir, shedding light on my experiences and perspectives, that I realized the transformative power of storytelling. With the support of loved ones, including my husband, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, reclaiming my narrative and embracing the significance of my voice.
If you are local, or visiting the beautiful Tampa Bay area on Florida’s Gulf Coast, stop in to The Gilded Page, meet the lovely woman who owns the store. It’s a wonderful way to support literacy and a women-owned business.
On this International Women’s Day, when we’re tasked with inspiring inclusion among women, let’s continue to encourage all women to share their voices, talents and expertise to improve the world.