Disclaimer: The resources provided on this website are meant to educate the user on various DEIA-related topics; they are not to be interpreted as a directive from or policy of the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Always consult with your department’s leadership, human resource office, and/or in-house counsel before adopting any of the ideas expressed on this website. Many resources link to third-party websites that CalHR does not control. CalHR is not responsible for the contents of any third-party sites, links in third-party sites, or any changes or updates to third-party sites.
Purpose: The virtual backgrounds raise awareness about the diversity of the Californians that we serve, including important cultural celebrations and historical events with great impact. They are also a tool for supporting an inclusive workplace and engagement with California’s diverse communities. CalHR will add virtual backgrounds monthly. So, check this page and the archives. If you have a virtual background to share, see the DEIA Virtual Background Submission Guidelines below. For additional virtual backgrounds, visit the Employee Recognition Toolkit. We hope you enjoy this month's offerings!
New 3/3/2025
Women’s History Month celebrates the important contributions of women throughout history while highlighting the progress still to be made. The 2025 theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations," honors the power of women as leaders, mentors, and change-makers. For centuries, women have fought for equality, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Women have built strong communities to uplift and empower future generations.
Women’s History Month began in 1981. That year, Congress named the week of March 8 Women’s History Week to celebrate International Women’s Day. By 1987, it expanded to a month-long celebration to honor women’s contributions to politics, science, art, and activism. Click the link to learn about Women’s History Day events in the Sacramento Area.
March 8th is International Women’s Day. It’s a key time to celebrate women around the globe. The day allows us to celebrate women's achievements while understanding their ongoing challenges. Gender equality is an essential right that deserves recognition and celebration every day.
Women’s History Month is also a call to action, reminding us that progress is still needed. Equal pay is one key area needing improvement. March 25 marks Equal Pay Day, showing how far women still fall behind men in wages. The pay gap exists in many industries, and women of color face the biggest challenges. Making sure everyone is paid fairly is an important step toward true equality.
On January 27, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom signed the California Equal Pay Pledge. This pledge was created to close the gender pay gap. In support of this initiative, CalHR analyzes state employee demographic data to identify gender pay gap factors. CalHR published the analysis in the 2022 Women’s Earning Report. The analysis assists the Administration in developing strategies that could close the statewide gender pay gap. Organizations can join the pay equity initiative by taking the Equal Pay Pledge. For more information about the California gender pay gap, visit the 2022 Equal Pay Analysis Dashboard.
On March 31, we honor César Chávez, who led vital efforts for farm workers' rights. He aimed for fair wages and improved working conditions. Many of his efforts brought justice to many workers who were often ignored. Chávez organized peaceful demonstrations and work stoppages to raise awareness of their struggles. His commitment to equality inspires us to understand the strength of unity for important causes. Chávez’s legacy shows how peaceful determination can create lasting, positive change across generations. Click the link to learn more about César Chávez.
Women’s History Month Resources:
