The California State Senate made history on July 17 by officially declaring this date as Eunice Newton Foote Day, honoring the groundbreaking contributions of a woman long overlooked in the fields of science and women's rights. Senator Allen introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 99, which recognizes Foote as the founder of modern climate science and the first researcher to demonstrate the effects of greenhouse gases on Earth's climate.

Senator Allen highlighted Foote's remarkable achievements, including her role as the first American woman to publish work on physics in a scientific journal. Despite facing significant barriers as a woman in the mid-19th century, Foote conducted pioneering experiments that revealed the warming effects of carbon dioxide, predating similar work by John Tyndall, who has often been credited as the father of climate science.

The resolution not only acknowledges Foote's scientific legacy but also aims to correct historical oversights regarding women's contributions to science. Senator Blake Spear echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of recognizing women's roles in significant societal issues throughout history.

The Senate's unanimous support for the resolution, with a vote of 37-0, marks a significant step in honoring Foote's legacy and inspiring future generations. In celebration of Eunice Newton Foote Day, the Senate welcomed award-winning documentary filmmaker Cathy Kaszek, who is currently working on a film that highlights Foote's contributions to climate science.

This recognition serves as a reminder of the many brilliant women whose achievements have been overshadowed and aims to inspire young girls to pursue careers in science and beyond.