Inspiring Inclusion Around the Globe
Imagine a perfect world where there is gender equality and the inclusion of women in all facets of society is a given. Making that a reality is the goal of the 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8. This year, according to the organization, IWD’s theme is #InspireInclusion.
This is the day when women and men can come together to celebrate women’s achievements and to work together to promote equality, according to Good Housekeeping. It’s a time to raise awareness and to advocate for gender parity around the globe, as well as to pay tribute to those who came before in the 113-year history of IWD.
What is International Women’s Day?
In the early 1900s, women began to hold marches to advocate for change. One of the first ones was held in New York City where 15,000 women took to the streets to campaign for better working conditions, higher pay, and the right to vote. This led to the creation of National Women’s Day in 1909.
These marches and advocating for women’s rights spread to other parts of the world and became known as International Women’s Day in 1911. Today, it is a global phenomenon and was recognized by the UN in 1975. But despite all the work that has already been done, there is still far more to do.
What can you do?
There is a myriad of ways that you can do your part, reported India Today. You can organize or participate in an event in your area. Some of these range from speakers about women in business and government to celebrating women in sports. There are 475 events listed on the IWD website.
You can support women owned businesses, especially in nontraditional occupations like plumbers, electricians, and auto mechanics. Also use the power of the purse by donating to organizations that support women and girls. Volunteer your talents to help women become all that they can be.
But most of all, take this day to celebrate the women in your life – in your family, community, and workplace – and dedicate yourself to inspiring change on this day and every day.
