Do we still need International Women’s Day?
People may question why, in 2024, there is still a need for a specific day to celebrate women. Through a European lens, as a white British woman, it might seem redundant to some. Working with people of many different cultures, in a traditionally male industry, living with a gender-based chronic illness, I can still see a lot of areas where a focus on women in the workplace is very necessary.
But it’s the hidden voices across the world that this day helps shine a light on.
This article from the BBC says it plainly and without judgement: sexual violence used as a weapon of war, girls being denied secondary-school education and the continued use of women and their bodies as commodities or political tools. If there were ever an argument needed for continued efforts to highlight women’s issues, these are just a few.
“Organisers say the day provides an opportunity to mark progress made, but also to highlight the erosion of women's rights across the world, as well as the effects of gender violence and abuse.”
All the disempowered, voiceless, and unequal peoples of the world need our support. Today is not about competing to be more 'in need' than any other community; it's about inclusion. This year's theme, 'Inspire Inclusion,' emphasises inclusion for women in all areas.
If we strive for presence and equality in every sector, industry, level of authority, government, and activity, we can help shift the balance. For future generations of girls and women, let's support the levelling up of services, opportunities, and access.
Let's take action to hire, empower, develop, and support all women in every business field we work in.
Together, let's raise awareness by ensuring everyone recognises unconscious bias, understands the negative impact of disparities in team views on business, and acknowledges the power of gender parity, at the highest levels of leadership to fuel economic empowerment for all.
“To truly include women means to openly embrace their diversity of race, age, ability, faith, body image, and how they identify. Worldwide, women must be included in all fields of endeavour.”
Read full article here on the BBC
UNICEF for donations supporting women and children
Visit the International Women's Day site for more information on how we can all support the 'Inspire Inclusion' movement