Ways To Celebrate International Women’s Day
For over a century, International Women’s Day, held on 8 March each year, has marked a day of celebration and advocacy for women’s rights and equality around the world and while there won’t be large gatherings or events because of COVID-19, there are still ways to celebrate the women in your life and your community.
Reach out to the women in your life who have inspired you or had an impact on your life.
Sometimes, simple words of encouragement and love can go a long way in lifting someone up and inspiring them to keep going. Whether it’s your mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, girlfriend, or friend – send a text, call or Facetime an important woman in your life to let them know how awesome they are and how they are setting a positive example for other women.
Learn about famous and inspirational women.
Honour famous and inspirational women by learning more about them and their impact. Do a Google search, head to the library (if it’s open). There are any number of ways to learn more about awesome women.
Honour our elders.
None of us would be here without the work of the women who came before us. So take some time to reach out to your elders on IWD. Even if these women never identified as feminists or fought on the frontlines, many, through the act of living, made a difference and we should honour their work regardless.
Give a compliment to an overlooked woman.
Have a colleague who is doing big things but rarely gets praised for it? Notice someone going the extra mile with little fanfare? Be the person to shine the spotlight on these individuals either with a private note or vote of confidence.
Educate the youth.
Educate the next generation of feminists and activists by getting them involved in IWD activities. Explain to your kids why the day is celebrated, and how important it is for women and men to be treated equally. Read about remarkable women, watch an inspiring girl power movie, or volunteer together.
Make introductions.
You might be surprised how much power you carry and how you can help another women move forward in her career simply by getting a little networking help. So go ahead and make the introduction by introducing a young woman to another powerful mover and shaker. Or write a letter of recommendation and advocate for another woman.
Involve men and people who identify beyond the gender binary in the conversation and celebration.
In work place settings oftentimes, most International Women’s Day celebrations and initiatives are targeted at women. However, if you happen to be working try something different and include people of all gender identities in the conversations and become equal advocates for gender parity.
According to a Harvard Business Review article, when men are deliberately engaged in gender inclusion programs, 96% of organisations see progress — compared to only 30% of organisations where men are not engaged. When you’re planning your International Women’s Day activities, ensure you invite and encourage your male friends or teammates to participate and champion gender equality together. And make sure your gender diverse and non-binary friends and teammates are included and welcomed into the conversation about how we can promote equality for people of all gender identities.
Support women-owned businesses.
Supporting businesses that are owned, operated, and controlled by a woman or women helps contribute to equal economic empowerment, representative products and services, and a more prosperous economy overall.
“Vote with your coins” this International Women’s Day by deliberately seeking out and supporting local businesses that are women-owned. Share your challenge with your friends and encourage them to do the same!
Get to know women’s rights.
Can you imagine not being allowed to go to school because you’re a girl? Or being told you can’t do your dream job? Luckily, you have rights designed to make sure you’re treated fairly.
Donate to charity.
If you’re looking for a way to make a difference in a worthy cause this March, consider donating to a charitable organisation supporting women – either locally or globally.
Here are a few organisations doing incredible work to fight for gender equality and women’s rights:
Women for Women International - A charity that invests in women survivors of war and conflict, connecting them with each other, resources, and support to realise their own power.
Women For Refugee Women - This charity challenges the injustices faced by women who have had to flee their own country and seek safety and support here in the UK.
Dress for Success - A global not-for-profit organisation that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
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