Correspondent photos / Nancilynn Gatta Anne McEvoy of Women in History of Lakewood portrayed Mother Mary Harris Jones at Saturday’s 38th Trumbull County Women’s History Celebration at DiVieste’s Banquet Center in Warren. Dressed in a period costume and with her Irish accent, McEvoy explained the journey Jones took from Ireland to Canada and eventually to the United States.

WARREN — The contribution of American women to the betterment of society is especially recognized in March, which is Women’s History Month.

Thus, it was appropriate that the 38th Trumbull County Women’s History Celebration luncheon took place Saturday at DiVieste’s Banquet Centre.

In partnership with the National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA), the event showcased the theme of “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”

In her opening remarks, chairperson of the event, Esther Gartland, pointed out that in order to reach a future of equality, sustainability and justice, women need to connect across generations, geographies and disciplines, then collaborate, mentor and share learning, while imagining a long-term view of our future.

The Trumbull County Women’s History Celebration promotes the achievements of women in Trumbull County from the past and encourages their success in the future through a yearly scholarship. It also highlights women’s accomplishments throughout the country.

During Warren Mayor Doug Franklin’s proclamation presentation, he said it was an honor to be there.

“It is always inspiring to see the women’s clubs and organizations in action. History shows us that while men are very good about making long speeches about history, women are usually too busy actually making it to stand around at a podium,” he said.

Trumbull County Women’s History Celebration gave a $1,000 scholarship to a nontraditional female student, Mia McEachern of Youngstown, a full-time special education major at Youngstown State University with a 4.0 GPA. McEachern is married, a mother of two children and employed at Warren City Schools.

In her acceptance speech, McEachern said, “Receiving this award is not just a financial blessing, but a powerful reminder that hard work, faith and perseverance truly matters. My academic path has come with challenges. Each one has shaped me into the resilient, determined woman I am today. Obstacles are not just barriers. They are an opportunity for growth and strength,” she said.

Viewing the scholarship as encouragement, McEachern sees her education as a pathway to a better future for her and her family, and thanked her husband for encouraging her to pursue her degree. She chose her major to help children who deserve to be seen and to help them reach their full potential.

The luncheon’s historic presentation featured Mother Mary Harris Jones portrayed by Anne McEvoy of Women in History from Lakewood.

Dressed in a period costume and with her Irish accent, McEvoy explained the journey Jones took from Ireland to Canada and eventually to the United States and the motivation for her to become an advocate for the rights of laborers, women and children working in dangerous situations. Her activism began after her husband and four children died of yellow fever.

She ended with, “Tell your stories to one another, your real stories. I think that is how we find out we really have a lot more in common than not. And remember, it’s never too early and it’s never too late to make a little history of your own.”

A roll call acknowledged the numerous women’s organizations that showed their support by attending the luncheon. Approximately 160 people attended.

In her closing remarks Gartland quoted Shirley Chilsom, the first African-American congresswoman, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”

This statement reminded the women that there is still work to do to make life more equitable, and they may have to do it themselves.

The afternoon included a 50-50 and basket raffles, a buffet meal and dessert table. Rev. Erica L. Brown of Howland Community Church delivered the Invocation; Stephanie Furano led the Pledge of Allegiance and Madonna Chism Pinkard gave the toast.