International Women’s Day is a globally-recognized holiday dedicated to celebrating the women’s rights movement. In an era where women represent nearly half of the U.S. workforce and the majority of college graduates, our women-led organization couldn’t be happier to share what international women’s day means to us.
Empowerment
To me, International Women’s Day symbolizes empowerment and showing your support for other women. Although we have made significant strides in terms of Women’s Rights and equality, there is still a long way to go.
Despite representing nearly half of the U.S. workforce, sexism and gender discrimination remain highly-prevalent issues in the workplace.
International Women’s Day is all about continuing the momentum to keep fighting for our rights. It is critical to continue showing up for other women and lending our support to one another.
— Valerie Battaglia
International Women’s Day takes on different meanings for me, both personally and professionally. It’s not that long ago that my unwed mom had to ask permission to keep her job when she found out she was pregnant with me. Only to then have to fight for her insurance coverage to include me as well. For reference, this was 1978, just 45 years ago.
Fortunately, things worked out. However, it’s not lost on me what my life could have been like had my mom not stood up for herself during a time when women were making significant strides in equality.
Hearing her tell these stories about what it was like for women less than 50 years ago makes me grateful, appreciative, and determined to make sure that progress continues to be made — and not just for women, but for all under-represented groups.
IWD is a day to reflect and celebrate accomplishments made by women like my mom who stood up for themselves and others, which allows women to be moms and have careers at the same time. It also reminds me of my greater purpose to be a positive role model and to continue pushing for equality for my daughter, my peers, and generations to come.
— Melissa Galbadores
International Women’s Day encourages us to take the time to acknowledge the influential women in our lives and around the world.
It reminds me we are deeply connected to one another, whether we see it or not, and each step we take makes it easier for others to follow in our footsteps.
I never would’ve had the courage to follow my dream of moving to Europe if I hadn’t known the unconditional support of the women around me.
I am immensely grateful to have been raised in a family led by strong, independent women and to have found like-minded women on our team at iCre8Solutions. I’m proud to honor all those who have helped shape me, and I’m excited to see how we can continue to shape the world.
— Lily Sanders
How You Can Get Involved
- Embrace HERstory: Did you know March is Women’s History Month? We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the great advancements made by women throughout history.
- Attend an International Women’s Day march: Go online and see where your closest Women’s Day march is and get involved!
- Step outside of your comfort zone: Watch content and read books by new creators and authors to broaden your perspective.
- Take time to educate yourself: It is no one else’s job to make you whole. It’s up to you to dedicate time to learn more about women’s rights, current issues, and how you can be a supportive ally.
Conclusion
International Women’s Day is a celebration of how far the women’s rights movement has come. As a women-led organization, International Women’s Day is an important milestone for honoring each other’s accomplishments.
This International Women’s Day, we encourage you to celebrate the women in your life and take the time to explore HERstory.