Her Story, Our Future: Pasadena Celebrates Women Who Shape the City

Her Story, Our Future (Photo – visitpasadena)

The City of Pasadena is rolling out a dynamic lineup of events this March in honor of National Women’s History Month, inviting residents of all ages to celebrate the achievements, creativity and leadership of women who have shaped history, and those shaping the city today.

By John Boucher

From hands-on art workshops to thought-provoking conversations on pay equity, the monthlong celebration blends reflection with action, spotlighting women in public service, business, literature and beyond.

Art, Identity and Inspiration at the Library

The Pasadena Public Library system is hosting a series of creative programs designed to empower participants through storytelling and self-expression.

On Saturday, March 7, the Santa Catalina Branch Library will host “Collage Your Role Model!”, encouraging attendees ages 9 and up to create artwork honoring the women who inspire them — whether a family member, educator, activist or celebrity. Supplies will be provided, offering young artists a chance to reflect on the power of influence and mentorship.

Later in the month, teens and adults will explore identity and self-expression during the “I Am” Radiating Paper Mosaic workshop on March 12. Participants will craft mosaics featuring meaningful words and phrases that define their journeys.

Aspiring aviators can also celebrate trailblazing women in aviation during “Amelia Earhart’s Paper Plane Race” on March 14. The event honors pioneering pilot Amelia Earhart with a friendly paper airplane competition that blends history and hands-on fun for ages 8 and up.

For adults, the San Rafael Branch Library will host “Celebrate Women’s ‘Her’ Story – Bookmarks” on March 20, where participants can design personalized bookmarks inspired by quotes from women writers or their own lived experiences.

In addition, the library has curated a special Women’s History Month book list featuring titles by women authors and works centered on the diverse experiences of American women.

Advancing Pay Equity: HERstory 2026

A central highlight of the month will be HERstory 2026: The Path Forward for Pay Equity, an interactive forum hosted by the City’s Commission on the Status of Women on March 14 at Robinson Park.

The event will feature a panel discussion addressing the persistent gender pay gap, accompanied by excerpts from Lilly, a 2025 film starring Patricia Clarkson. The film tells the story of Lilly Ledbetter, whose landmark fight against wage discrimination became a national catalyst for workplace equity reform.

Organizers say the event is designed not only to honor past advocacy but to empower attendees with tools and knowledge to continue pushing for change.

Spotlighting Women Who Shape Pasadena

Beyond in-person events, the city will take to social media throughout March to highlight women making a difference locally. The Communications and Marketing Division will feature profiles of leaders contributing to Pasadena’s growth and vitality across industries.

In tandem, the Economic Development Division will launch a Woman-Owned Businesses Spotlight Series, showcasing entrepreneurs who are driving innovation and community impact.

Stepping Into the Fire: Women’s Fire Academy

Extending the celebration into April, the Pasadena Fire Department, in partnership with the Glendale Fire Department, will host the second annual Women’s Fire Academy on April 11 and 12.

The free, hands-on academy invites women ages 18 and older to experience real firefighting activities under the guidance of professional firefighters. Organizers say the program aims to inspire more women to consider careers in fire service and public safety.

A Communitywide Celebration

City officials say the diverse slate of events reflects Pasadena’s commitment to honoring women’s contributions while fostering new generations of leaders.

“These programs are about celebrating where we’ve been and investing in where we’re going,” organizers shared. “Women’s History Month is a time to reflect, but also a time to act.”

Residents are encouraged to register early for events requiring RSVPs and to follow the City of Pasadena’s social media channels for ongoing features and updates throughout the month.

Pasadena’s message is clear: the stories of women, past, present and future, are central to the story of the city itself.