The Matilda Effect - Uncovering a Legacy Beyond Marie Curie

Gage and Rossiter were not scientists. They were scholars born in two different centuries. Yet their revolutionary academic endeavors confronted the same long-standing phenomenon in which scientific contributions of women were deliberately under-recognized through systemic biases. They challenged institutional powers and contributed to the advancement of women's role in the sciences by writing the trailblazers back into history.

Rossiter believed the phenomenon had to be named to acknowledge its existence. She asserted that naming it would "remind and help current and future scholars to write a more equitable and comprehensive history and sociology of science that not only does not leave all the 'Matildas' out, but calls attention to still more of them." 

Through her tireless research and documentation, Rossiter unearthed the lives and accomplishments of hundreds of women scientists, proving that Marie Curie was not the only woman in science to have achieved anything notable. She built an intellectual foundation that academic and research communities continue to use and expand upon today to investigate, challenge, and dismantle inequalities, barriers, and stereotypes.

Moreover, Rossiter's clear rendering of history serves as an inspiration for future generations of women in science. Young women pursuing STEM degrees and careers can see that the path has been paved by the grit and resilience of groundbreaking female scientists who came before them.

May this knowledge stir up girls' ambitions and dreams to keep blazing the trail forward. At Mission Matilda, we’re joining the mission to foster a culture that values and champions the curiosity, intellect, capabilities, and contributions of girls and women. We don't want any more forgotten or overlooked Matildas. We want to amplify the celebration of women's achievements in STEM so that their stories create a cycle of inspiration that encourages more girls to pursue careers in STEM.

Because innovation needs girls.