March 8 is International Women’s Day, and it is a celebration, a movement and a call to action. Here are nine things you should know about it:
What the heck is it? “International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women - while also marking a call to action for accelerating gender equality.”
When did it start? The first International Women's Day occurred in 1911, more than a hundred years ago.
Whose event is this? Is it corporate? Political? Nope. International Women’s Day belongs to all of us and everyone is encouraged to acknowledge the day and continue to fight for and celebrate equality.
I love a good theme, whatcha’ got? The theme for 2020 is #EachforEqual which challenges each and every one of us to “choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women's achievements.”
Are there International Women’s Day Colors? Yup, what’s a theme without a color palette? You’ll find two: purple which signifies justice and dignity and green to symbolize hope.
Is it just for women? Heck no. Men are not only welcome to acknowledge and celebrate, we can’t get to a place of true equality without them.
Wait, haven’t the battles been won? Do we still need an International Women’s Day? Yes we do! We still have tremendous wage disparity between men and women in this country, and our sisters in nations around the world are far, far behind us in their quest for dignity and equality. Yup, we’ve won some battles, but here, and overseas, there is much work to be done.
What can I do? There are International Women’s Days events happening across the country and across the world. Take part in an event, or create your own -- invite three friends to walk with you on March 8 and talk about what you each can do to help challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women's achievements. Talk to your mother about how things have changed since she was a child. Talk to your daughters about how far we have come and how far we still have to go.
Where can I learn more? Visit the official IWD website and follow these two amazing hashtags: #IWD2020 #EachForEqual