International Women’s Day is the perfect opportunity to take the time to celebrate the women in your life and recognise the contribution women make globally. It is a chance to show your support for causes which promote parity and equality for women, worldwide.
Attend an IWD Event
There are many IWD local events to choose from this year. The Toronto Network of Women, Women in Government and the Ontario Federal Council are hosting an International Women’s Day Event on March 8 to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. There is also an event in Vancouver organised by the Women’s Economic Council who are hosting an in-person event through the Think Women network project.
Donate!
Across the world, profound thoughts and solidarity prevail from the sisterhood and allies for the Ukraine women and girls caught in conflict. International Women’s Day (IWD) provides a critical moment to step forward and donate to those groups supporting vulnerable women and girls. Why not make your donation to a charity which enables the progress and success of women and girls where they are in particular need.
Vote with your dollar!
Whether locally or online, think of ways you can support other women in your community that run businesses. This could involve meeting friends at a female owned restaurant for dinner, or leaving a great review if a female entrepreneur has provided you with some excellent customer care. “Vote with your dollar” this International Women’s Day by mindfully seeking out and supporting local businesses that are women-owned. Share your challenge with your friends and colleagues and encourage them to do the same!
Women in Film
Set up a screening for you and friends. Representation in film has a huge impact on how audiences learn about gender norms, the issues we focus on, and the way we perceive the world. Women directors are making huge strides forwards to close the gender gap but there is still work to be done and we can show our support by watching the movies they make and telling our friends about them. Female directors and their best films include: Kathryn Bigelow (The Hurt Locker) Agnès Varda (Faces Places), Sofia Coppola (Lost in Translation), Jane Campion (The Piano), Penny Marshall (A League of Their Own), Ava DuVernay (Selma), Nora Ephron (Sleepless in Seattle) and Ida Lupino (The Hitch-Hiker).
Acknowledge the Awesome Women in your Life
Lift each other up and offer encouragement to the women in your life. Your words of support might be the difference in them persevering in their endeavour or may just give them a little extra dose of happiness that day.
Whether it is your mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, girlfriend, or friend – send a text, call or Facetime an important woman in your life to let them know that you think they are awesome!