Inspired by a simple message on International Women's Day
Mar 10
2 min read
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I was a bit over International Women's Day (IWD), but my mind has been changed by a simple WhatsApp message.
Everywhere I've worked, it's the already busy women who are tasked with organising something for the staff. There's usually a tokenistic speech by a principal or general manager about the important women in his life and a general thank you to women. Then we eat a cupcake.
This year seemed to be no different until I got a message from a lady I'm mentoring. She's in a country where girls and women are not currently allowed to work outside the home, get an education, travel by themselves, appear in the media or exercise other basic rights. Her message described taking her son out for a meal to celebrate. She bought herself a beautiful watch and got a gift from the NGO she works for.
It's incredible that she and the NGO are celebrating IWD. Although I'm not entirely sure of the risks involved, their resilience and defiance are inspiring. This approach aligns more closely with the history of IWD than a sweet cupcake and an awkward speech in the lunchroom.
What actions can I (and you too, if you're interested) take to ensure that next year's March 8th is more meaningful?
Use the next 12 months to improve representation on bookshelves and teaching materials, such as these posters.
Support women, girls, non-binary and transgender individuals in an area of passion or expertise - volunteer time with a women's community group or sports team, or donate clothing to charities like Dress for Success or Sisterworks.
Next March, enlist all people at work to plan an IWD celebration that includes stories of empowerment and support, perhaps with a fundraising or educational component that can go towards women in countries with fewer rights.
Please comment with other ideas for having a more inspiring International Women's Day.