International Women’s Day 2023 is a day to commemorate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world. This day is an opportunity to celebrate the progress made towards gender equality, as well as to recognise the work that still needs to be done.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2023 is #ChooseToChallenge. The theme encourages individuals to challenge gender bias and inequality and create a more inclusive world. It is a call to action for everyone to take responsibility for their actions and help create more gender-equal world.
The history of International Women's Day
The history of International Women’s Day dates back to 1908 when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding better working conditions, the right to vote, and an end to discrimination. In 1911, International Women’s Day was celebrated for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
Today, International Women’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world, and it has become a day to raise awareness about women’s issues and promote gender equality. It is also a day to recognise the achievements of women who have made significant contributions to their communities and countries.
There's still work to be done
Despite the progress made towards gender equality, women continue to face many challenges around the world. Women are still underrepresented in political leadership, and they often face discrimination in the workplace. Women also face higher rates of poverty, and they are more likely to be victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
One way to promote gender equality is to empower women through education and training. Providing women with access to education and training opportunities can help them to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workplace and become leaders in their communities.
Another way to promote gender equality is to ensure that women have equal access to opportunities, resources, and services. This includes access to healthcare, financial services, and legal services. Governments, businesses, and communities can work together to remove barriers to access and create a more inclusive world for women.
What it means to be a strong woman
I come from a family of strong women. Women who have had to struggle against all kinds of adversities and set backs.
Strong women come from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds. They are characterised by their resilience, determination, and courage, and they have made a significant impact in various fields, including politics, science, entertainment, and business.
Strong women are not defined by their personal strength alone. Instead, they possess an inner strength that comes from their ability to face adversity head-on, navigate difficult situations, and rise above challenges. They are not afraid to speak their minds and stand up for their beliefs, even in the face of opposition or criticism.
One of the most inspiring things about strong women is their ability to overcome obstacles and make a positive impact on the world.
Strong women also exist in everyday life, and their stories often go untold. They are the single mothers who work hard to support their children, the caregivers who devote their lives to helping others, and the activists who fight for justice in their communities. These women may not be famous or well-known, but their strength and determination are just as inspiring as those in the public eye.
Female inspirations
There are many examples of strong women who have made significant contributions to various fields. Here are some notable examples:
- Emmeline Pankhurst – a suffragette who fought for women’s right to vote and played a pivotal role in the women’s suffrage movement.
- Ada Lovelace – a mathematician and computer programmer who is widely regarded as the world’s first computer programmer.
- J.K. Rowling – the author of the Harry Potter series, who has become one of the most successful and influential writers in modern times.
- Florence Nightingale – a pioneering nurse who revolutionized the nursing profession and played a key role in improving healthcare in the UK and around the world.
- Mary Shelley – the author of the classic novel Frankenstein, who was a pioneer of science fiction and horror.
- Rosalind Franklin – a scientist who played a crucial role in the discovery of the structure of DNA, but who was largely unacknowledged for her contributions during her lifetime.
- Malala Yousafzai – a Pakistani activist for girls’ education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate.
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson – the first female doctor in the UK and a leading advocate for women’s rights in medicine.
In conclusion
In conclusion, it must be remembered that strong women are a force to be reckoned with, and their impact on the world cannot be overstated. They have broken down barriers, shattered stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations of women to succeed. Their stories serve as a reminder that anyone can overcome adversity and make a difference in the world, regardless of their gender, race, or background.
By promoting education and training opportunities, removing barriers to access, and challenging gender bias and inequality, we can create a more inclusive world for women. Let us all #ChooseToChallenge and work towards a gender-equal world.
