March 8 is International Women’s Day and the theme for 2020 is equality for all. In over 25 countries, it is a public holiday and others is it largely ignored. It can be a day of protest or a day that celebrates womanhood. It is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, and at the same time to focus on continued gender equality.
March is also Women’s History month in the U.S. Here are some ways to celebrate:
Learn more about Women’s History month.
Become a mentor to someone at work, a family member or a neighbor. Sharing knowledge is helping others reach their goal.
Get inspired by women role models – inspirational quotes.
Support women-owned businesses in your area.
Listen to inspiring podcasts: The History Chicks, Stuff Mom Never Told You, The Well Woman Show
Donate gently used professional clothes for women just starting out. You can find your local Dress for Success here.
Volunteer at a local women’s shelter or somewhere in your community that supports women.
Read books as inspiration. These 10 books were written about women by women.
Showcase women at work from all levels and departments either through email announcements or special events.
Watch a movie or documentary on powerful women of influence. How about RBG (Ruth Bader Ginsburg)?
How about supporting women in the arts? There is a wide range of exhibitions in the United States. From California to New York, galleries across the country are focusing on women’s issues through art. Artists range from Africa to Mexico. To find the best exhibitions, click here.
To find additional events by country, click here.
However you choose to honor the women in your life, remember that gender equality makes the world a healthier, wealthier and more harmonious place for us all. Through our own actions, behaviors and conversations, we can all impact our larger society to continue to move towards a more gender equal world.
And, in the words of Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist, “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”
Written by Cathy Heyne, GMS, Managing Director
