Women’s rights have come a long way, but there’s still a lot of work to be done. On International Women’s Day, which takes place on the 8 March every year, we celebrate the women who are leading the fight against gender bias.
This year, the theme is ‘Give to Gain’. This theme encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. There are many ways to give, whether that’s through knowledge, visibility, time, connection or recognition. These small actions are big steps in the journey to gender equality.
International Women’s Day is one of the most important days of the year to raise awareness for gender equality and to honour women’s achievements. We all play our part in building a world without gender bias, so if you want to celebrate International Women’s Day, here are eight ways that you can give to gain!
1. Honour inspirational women
Women often don’t get the credit they deserve for their achievements. We can change that! Get together with colleagues and talk about the women who inspire you and why. This can be a woman in politics, an important figure in history, or your favourite artist.
2. Organise a book club
3. Support women-owned businesses
If you can, try to support small women-owned businesses. By doing this, you contribute to equal economic empowerment, and you help get a variety of products and services out there.
4. Meet up with women in your network
There’s no better way to learn more about other people’s experiences than by taking the time to have a conversation with them. Try asking a woman in your personal or professional network to meet up (virtually or in person) and share your stories. This can be as quick as a 20-minute coffee break!
5. Donate to charity
There are many ways you can support women without spending money, but if you can and want to, there are local and global organisations that you can donate to. These charities do incredible work to create a world where women feel safe and free from gender inequality. If you want to help these non-profits in a different way, maybe try volunteering in your local area? Suggested charities: UN Women, Young Women’s Trust and Women’s Aid.
6. Challenge inequality and show your support
We all need to do our part. Not just on International Women’s Day, but every day. So, if you witness inequality, try to address it. You can also publicly show your support for women’s rights on social media. If you feel like you don’t have enough information to have these conversations, that’s perfectly normal. If you want to learn more, there are thousands and thousands of books, documentaries or videos out there. Even something as simple as following a feminist social media account can provide you with bite-sized bits of information.
7. Include all genders
Gender inequality is not just a women’s issue. It affects all of us. That’s why it’s important that everyone is included in these conversations. So, when you’re planning your International Women’s Day activities, invite and encourage your male and non-binary friends and colleagues to join. Make sure they feel welcome too.
8. Acknowledge the amazing women in your life
Show the women you admire how great they are. Just expressing your appreciation can inspire someone and make them feel valued. So pick up the phone and call or text your friend or family member.
Creating a truly inclusive workplace is an ongoing commitment, and the steps we’ve discussed are fantastic ways to show up for the women in your team every day. If you’d like to celebrate International Women’s Day further, why not use your Care Professional Rewards? It’s a wonderful opportunity to treat a colleague to a coffee, send a thoughtful gift to a mentor, or simply use the platform to send a heartfelt e-card to the inspiring women you work with, making them feel seen and appreciated on this special day.
Available to all Care Professionals who have reached Tier 1 and above. Click here to login and access your rewards now!