For over a century, International Women’s Day, held on 8 March each year, and has marked a day of celebration and advocacy for women’s rights and equality around the world.
The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2021 is ‘Choose to Challenge’ – because a challenged world is an alert world, and from challenge comes change.
Here are some ideas of how to celebrate #IWD this year, no matter who you are!
Set up a coffee date with an older woman in your life
Sometimes, the best way to get inspired or learn something new is through a simple conversation. Make time to sit down with an older woman in your life, and ask her about her unique experiences. Some questions you could ask include:
- What challenges have you faced based on your gender?
- How have you balanced your personal and professional lives?
- Have you seen equality increase in your lifetime?
- What advice would you give your younger self?
You never know what you can learn from listening to someone else’s perspective of the world!
Start a book club or have a movie night
To celebrate International Women’s Day this year, consider starting a book club in your community that focuses on stories of the achievements of women. This is a great opportunity to learn about some amazing women from history. Alternatively, host a movie night showing documentaries and movies that have female hero at their centre, or are directed and produced by women.
Acknowledge the awesome women in your life!
Sometimes, simple words of encouragement and love can go a long way in lifting someone up and inspiring them to keep going. Whether it’s your partner, sister, daughter, granddaughter, or friend – send a text, call or video call an important woman in your life to let them know how awesome they are.