4 Powerful Ways to Celebrate International Women's Day That Will Actually Make a Difference

Posted by Amy Lucas on March 08, 2017

We are at a turning point in our nation’s history. Even those of us who prefer sleeping under a rock to getting involved in any type of political discussion - let alone movement - are being forced to wake up. Because, when the foundation of America is shaken, the whole world feels the rumble. And, thank goodness, we’re rumbling loud!

Feeling the Movement

The worldwide Women’s March on Washington on January 21st, 2017 marked the largest single-day demonstration in the history of the United States. Women rose up and marched for human rights, women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, worker’s rights, immigration reform, environmental reform, healthcare reform, freedom of religion, and racial equality. Well done! But not done… It’s not time just yet to crawl back under the rock, especially not with the patriarchy doing its darndest to rule with an iron fist. Women around the world are issuing another call to action on March 8th, 2017 for International Women’s Day.

#BeBoldForChange

International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

Yes, we’ve made progress, but progress is slowing, and in some parts of the world - even our great country - progress is in danger of regressing. International Women’s Day is a day for men and women to come together tocelebrate the achievements of women and the strides being made. And, todeclare the bold action you will take to keep pushing progress forward. Here’s the real deal: thegender gap won’t close entirely until 2186, and you and I will be long gone and unable to enjoy the boons of equal pay and (hopefully) non-sexist attitudes. Out of 144 countries, only five have closed 80% or more of the gap, and no, the United States isn’t even close to being one of them. International Women’s Day acts as a catalyst for change, and it’s as easy as using the hashtag#BeBoldForChange to show your support and stand with the movement.

Ideas for Celebrating International Women’s Day

There are a multitude of resources for adding your voice to International Women’s Day on thewebsite, and you can take action bysubmitting your commitment to one or more of the following:

1. Challenge bias and inequality - challenging stereotypes and calling out when women are excluded
2. Campaign against violence -donate to groups that fight against abuse or volunteer to help at a local shelter
3. Forge women’s advancement -buy from companies that support women or mentor a woman and sponsor her goals
4. Celebrate women’s achievement -praise the success of female leaders, and reinforce and support women’s triumphs

You can alsorun your own #BeBoldForChange IWD campaign. You can go all out, or your campaign can be as simple as downloadingselfie cards to share on social media and embed awidget on your website.

Think About What You Have to Share

The organizers behind International Women’s Day also recommend hosting a #BeBoldForChange IWD event. Invite a few, or a lot, of women over. Share stories about when you and others have taken bold action for women’s equality and closing the gender gap, and discuss how you can take proactive action to further inspire progress. Running low on time? Your contribution and collaboration can be as simple as donating to charity. Be sure to hashtag your donation to motivate others to give as well. And let us know how you celebrated International Women’s Day in the comments below. There you have it… let’s be bold for change together!