International Womens Day Celebration

I like to think I celebrate women every single day – at least in my heart. In October, Polish women struck to protest a bill that would completely ban abortion in the country.

Google’s slideshow doodle for International Women’s Day tells the stories of 13 pioneering women who contributed to the struggle for women’s rights. In addition, despite changing societal norms, women are traditionally expected to fulfill various domestic obligations such as taking care of children and elders, running the household, and preparing meals. How can positive change for women come about if we are not in a position to influence that change?

Elite athletes, program facilitators and state sporting organisations will work with local sporting clubs to support and celebrate women’s sport.

The answer is a bit of a letdown: the women who are able to – the women who are privileged enough to take a trip to Washington – will march for them.

One day at a time.

The organizers are asking women around the world to take the day off work, whether their labor is paid or unpaid, and avoid spending money anywhere but at woman- or minority-owned businesses. And if you know a woman who doesn’t have the support or resources to perform acts of protest, lend her a hand. Discrimination and violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread human rights abuses.

Women put in two-and-a-half times more time in these mostly unpaid and very under-appreciated tasks than men on a global average. But its significance goes beyond commemoration and celebration.

Is it the stereotype scaring us away from claiming the “feminist” title? One in three women is subject to physical violence in the private sphere, and the wage gap between men and women, for equal work and with equal skills, is a fact across the world. Women leaders have been working hard to consolidate gains made for their advancement, as seen in the progressive clauses of the 2010 Constitution, which are yet to be fully implemented. I’m going to do more to recognise and promote the achievements of women. If you think you are doing the right thing then you have to move forward, don’t stop.

Globally, the intersections would include geography, race, ethnicity, language, class, gender, sexuality, ability, etc.

Minister for Women Mereseini Vuniwaqa says this year’s celebration is about committing to gender equality where women and children are free from all forms of discrimination. That is the strength that makes a woman an invaluable asset in every workplace.

And we compare ourselves to each other. While China, Madagascar, and Nepal give women the day off.

Finally, the question of gender and sexuality.

And for many, a great challenge has become accessing what are considered basic resources in many countries, resources like education and electricity. Because it’s not. Genders and gender identities are aplenty, so are sexualities and sexual preferences. I would encourage any female executive to regularly seek out networking opportunities and to build contacts and alliances that enhance and help develop their career.

March 8th is a date of great importance.