Empowered Journeys: A Year of Self-Advocacy for Female Veterans

In the tapestry of a year, each month has woven a unique thread in the empowering narrative of female veterans centered around self-advocacy. This journey, rich with experiences and milestones, has illuminated the path to celebrating oneself as a veteran. Let's revisit the themes that have unfolded over the past twelve months.

January: Self-Advocacy in the New Year & National Mentoring Month

The journey began with the dawning of a new year, setting the stage for self-reflection and setting empowering goals. Embracing National Mentoring Month, female veterans were given tools and resources to find or be a mentor.

February: Self-Advocacy and Confidence & National Women Inventors Month

As February unfolded, the focus turned to building confidence, an essential attribute in self-advocacy. Simultaneously, we celebrated the inventive spirit of female veterans during National Women Inventors Month, recognizing their creativity and resilience.

March: Self-Advocacy & Equity - In Your Life and Your Workplace

#EmbraceEquity & National Women's History Month echoed the call for equity in both personal and professional realms. The #EmbraceEquity movement gained momentum, dovetailing with the celebration of National Women's History Month and International Women's Day, honoring the trailblazing contributions of female veterans.

April: Self-Care through Self-Advocacy & National Stress Awareness Month

Amid spring blossoming, April underscored the importance of self-care as a form of self-advocacy. National Stress Awareness Month, We2AreVets prompted introspection and the cultivation of practices to nurture mental and emotional well-being.

May: Self-Advocating Through Self-Empowerment for Your Mental Health & National Mental Health Awareness Month

May delved into the depths of mental health awareness, encouraging female veterans to embrace self-empowerment as a means of advocacy. National Mental Health Awareness Month became a platform for open dialogue and destigmatization.

June: I am a Veteran - Self-Advocacy Through Recognition of Service and Beyond

National PTSD Awareness Month and June 12, Women Veteran's Day, is a pivotal month celebrating the identity of a veteran. It recognized female veterans' unique experiences and service, coinciding with National PTSD Awareness Month and culminating in Women's Veteran's Day.

July: Self-Advocacy through Communication

As summer heated up, July put the spotlight on effective communication. Female veterans honed their ability to express their needs confidently.

August: Goal Setting and Self-Advocacy

In the heat of August, goal setting became the focal point. The month empowered female veterans to define and pursue aspirations.

September: Wellness Through Self-Advocacy & National Wellness Month

September brought a holistic approach to wellness, emphasizing self-advocacy in maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health.

October: Self-marketing and Workplace Negotiations through Self-Advocacy

October is a month of transitions focused on professional development. Female veterans delved into self-marketing, resume building, and negotiation skills, positioning themselves for success in the workplace.

November: Building Your Network & Support System through Self-Advocacy

As autumn leaves fell, November emphasized the power of building networks and support systems.

December: Celebrating Yourself Through Self-Advocacy

As the year comes full circle, December beckons the grand finale—a celebration of self through the art of self-advocacy. This month encapsulates the triumphs, the growth, and the collective spirit of female veterans who have actively advocated for themselves. It's a celebration of identity, resilience, and the shared journey towards empowerment. As we toast to the past year's accomplishments, we affirm that self-advocacy is not just a concept—it's a powerful force that has shaped destinies, fostered community, and lit the way for a future filled with possibilities.