September 22nd–American Business Women’s Day was recognized in 1983 and 1986 by Congressional resolution and a proclamation was issued by President Ronald Reagan. It honors the increasing role that women have to play in the world of business today, as well as the accomplishments of businesswomen across the nation and the world at large.
Women play vital roles in anything and everything in society, and that includes business as well. With more than 68 million working women, and 7.7 million women business owners in America today, it is a blessing that Kansas City businessman Hilary Bufton Jr. sat down in a coffee shop with Shirley Cupp, Irma Beisel, and Frances Stuckey many years ago and founded the American Business Women’s Association, at a time when it was considered socially unacceptable for women to pursue a full-time career.
This association was incorporated on September 22, 1949, shortly after WWII when many women had lost their jobs and were reminded that their first responsibility was to their home and their family. Bufton Jr. felt that all women were seeking and deserved equal business opportunities, and, through necessity, had gained tremendous business knowledge during World War II. He also believed that a new organization for all businesswomen was needed.
The mission of the association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally. It is passionate about breaking boundaries for women and advocating for equal rights and pay across all facets of work.
McGregor recognizes the efforts of many Cleveland women in leadership through Celebrating Women!