Honoring the Past, Empowering the Future
Every March, we take time to celebrate International Women’s Day (March 8) and Women’s History Month – a chance to reflect on the progress women have made, recognize the challenges that still exist, and take action toward a more equal future. This is more than just a time to look back – it’s about lifting each other up today and pushing forward for a better tomorrow.
International Women’s Day (IWD) has been around for over a century, starting in the early 1900s as part of the global movement for women’s rights. Today, it’s a powerful reminder that while we’ve come a long way, there’s still work to do. Women still face pay gaps, unequal opportunities, and barriers to healthcare, education, and leadership roles.
IWD is also about celebrating wins – big and small. It’s about recognizing the women who fought for change, the ones breaking barriers today, and the ones who will shape the future. It’s a day to raise awareness, spark conversations, and take meaningful action.
IWD gives us one day to focus on women’s rights, but Women’s History Month keeps the conversation going all month long. We always hear about icons like Rosa Parks, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Malala Yousafzai – women who changed history in big ways. History isn’t just made by famous names. It’s shaped by every woman who pushes boundaries, supports her community, and helps pave the way for others, this includes moms, teachers, caregivers, activists, small business owners, and so many more. They may not be in history books, but they make a difference every single day. Women’s History Month is all about celebrating those contributions – big and small.
The Challenges Women Still Face
Despite all the progress, women still deal with unequal pay, underrepresentation in leadership, lack of access to quality healthcare, and workplace discrimination. The challenges are even greater for women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities.
At the same time, movements advocating for pay transparency, family-friendly workplace policies, reproductive rights, and gender-based violence prevention continue to gain momentum. Real progress happens when individuals, communities, and institutions work together to break down barriers and create opportunities for all women.
Make a Difference
You don’t need to be an activist to support women. Small actions matter!
- Shop women-owned: Support and promote businesses run by women.
- Speak up: Challenge discrimination in work, social settings, and online.
- Lift others up: Celebrate achievements, mentor, and advocate for women.
- Push for change: Support policies for equal pay, parental leave, and diversity.
Keep It Going
IWD and Women’s History Month remind us of progress made and what’s left to do. When women thrive, everyone benefits. Let’s support and uplift each other, not just in March, but every day.
What’s one thing you can do this month to empower yourself and the women around you?