International Women's Day
Introduction
International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8th every year and is a global day that celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
It is also a day to advocate for gender equality and to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles that women face in their daily lives.
The History of International Women’s Day
Each year, a theme is chosen to guide the celebrations and advocacy efforts, with the 2023 theme being “Women’s leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world.”
Women have made significant strides in the political arena, from gaining the right to vote to holding high-level government positions.
Celebrating Women’s Achievements
In 2021, Kamala Harris became the first woman, first Black woman, and first Asian American woman to hold the position of Vice President of the United States, breaking barriers for women in politics.
Women athletes have proven time and time again that they are just as skilled and talented as their male counterparts, yet they often face significant challenges in terms of funding, media coverage, and equal pay.
The US Women’s Soccer Team, for example, has been advocating for equal pay for years, and their fight has brought attention to the broader issue of pay inequality in sports.
Advocating for Gender Equality
While celebrating women’s achievements is important, it is equally important to use International Women’s Day as an opportunity to advocate for gender equality.
Despite the progress that has been made over the years, women still face significant barriers and discrimination in all aspects of life, including the workplace, education, and politics.
One of the most significant barriers that women face is the gender pay gap. Closing the gender pay gap would not only benefit women but also benefit the economy as a whole. Another significant issue that women face is violence and harassment.
What is the purpose of International Women’s Day? What are some of the challenges that women still face? What can individuals do to support gender equality?
FAQs