International Women’s Day holds a special place in my heart, serving as a powerful reminder of the progress made in advancing gender equality while offering a fresh look at the work that still lies ahead. This day is not just about celebrating the achievements of women around the world, but also about acknowledging the challenges they continue to face and advocating for change.
One of the reasons International Women’s Day is important to me is because it provides an opportunity to reflect on the incredible women who have personally shaped my life. From my mother, a retired nurse, who taught me the important values of perseverance and compassion, to my late grandmothers, my fiancé, my stepmother, my teachers, mentors, and colleagues, all who have inspired me with their wisdom and strength. Not just on International Women’s Day, but nearly everyday I am reminded of the countless ways in which women better our (and my) world.
International Women’s Day also serves as a call to action, urging us to address the systemic barriers that continue to hold women back. Whether it is the gender pay gap, lack of access to education and healthcare, or gender-based violence, there is still much work to be done around the world to ensure that all women and girls have the opportunity to thrive.
As a society, we must continue to challenge stereotypes and biases, support women in leadership roles, and create inclusive environments where everyone, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential. International Women’s Day offers a needed prompt to help do this, an opportunity to reflect on and measure the progress we’ve made and re-examine the work to be done to help build a more equitable and just world for everyone.
