On International Women’s Day, we stand for gender parity. In 1911, the first Women’s Day was celebrated in New York City. Today, now more than ever, the topic of equality is continuing to empower and provoke action on issues like the gender wage gap, rape culture, over-sexualized female portrayal in the media and the choice women have for their bodies – just to name a few.
The theme for this year’s IWD is #PressForProgress, with events being held worldwide to encourage everyone to stand up for women’s rights. To find out more about the events taking place in your community, be sure to look at how you can take action this year.
While this day helps to spark global attention and media coverage of rallies and panels, it’s important to remember that equality is something we can all aim for everyday. What are some changes you hope to see in 2018, and how can you help to achieve them?
Often when thinking about such a monumental and significant movement, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. You might even be thinking, “how much can I really do?”. Well, I’m here to tell you that all it takes is for you to commit to the idea of genuinely wanting equality. All change starts as an idea, and by setting yourself a goal of intentionally looking for ways you can positively impact the way that women are treated, you’re already on your way to making a difference.
Here are 5 ways you can make a difference:
- Stand up for change in a way that’s meaningful to you – Whether that’s posting on social media, organizing a group, or leading a march – Make your voice heard!
- Support other women – With so many other unnecessary hardships in life, let’s not make bringing each other down another one. Everyone benefits when we uplift and unite as powerful women, always working together!
- Ask questions – Be curious about what’s happening in other countries, maybe you’ll learn something new and be the first to educate your community about it. Implement a change, share your knowledge; you never know what could be helpful until you give it a try!
- Donate your time (or money) to an organization that benefits underprivileged girls – Check out Let Girls Learn, launched by Barack and Michelle Obama in 2015, this initiative works to make education more accessible to all girls, no matter their community or social situation.
- Most importantly – Never give up hope. While the road to equality is no easy walk in the park, it is worth it. With every day brings new opportunities for change, so make the most of them!
In light of this year’s movements, #MeToo and #TimesUp, this International Women’s Day is expected to break headlines. With so much attention in the media, it’s possible we are entering a new era with (hopefully) greater equality and respect for all.
Today, on March 8th 2018, what will you do to #PressForProgress?