New & Noteworthy List for March 2025

Reflects on the legislative efforts, struggle for suffrage, and achievements of women in Texas in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment. Provides brief biographies of significant women in Texas, including former and current Texas Senators. Notes that since the first woman was elected to a statewide office a century ago, Texas women have served at every level of state and local government.

Provides a chronological overview of women's history in Texas, from Native American Texas to the end of the twentieth century. Considers physical, geographic, legal, political, social, and cultural factors that challenged and shaped Texas women's roles in creating the state of Texas. Includes political female "firsts" across the spectrum of politics.

Mentions State Representative Senfronia Thompson; former State Representatives Frances "Sissy" Farenthold, Helen Moore, Irma Rangel, and Sarah Weddington; Judge Sarah T. Hughes; former Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison; and former U.S. Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson and Barbara Jordan.

Explores how African American women have affected the culture and history of Texas while also showing how they have been shaped by the larger culture. Compiles essays written by era experts to provide a survey of African American women's experiences through time and themes, including slavery and freedom; Reconstruction; the Civil Rights Era; and more. Argues that often-disenfranchised Black women actively pursued ways to make their voices heard and build community.

Examines how the legal profession has been the hardest of all professions for women to break into, due to sexual discrimination that was historically rooted in the legal system. Describes the challenges and limitations women endured in 1902, the year the first woman was allowed to practice law in Texas. Highlights the courage of women as they continued to face obstacles even into the 21st century. Points out that despite the obstacles, women lawyers today comprise more than 31 percent of the State Bar of Texas and 48 percent of law students in the state.

Presents a collection of interviews of twenty-five women who have led extraordinary lives and shaped Texas in significant ways. Shares the wisdom and life lessons of women who have broken barriers and challenged stereotypes. Features risk-takers from a variety of backgrounds, including former and current lawmakers, who offer insights into topics such as career challenges; being a minority; families; faith; adversity; perseverance; and success.