Breaking the Bias on International Women’s Day

For well over a century, women have been coming together each year to celebrate their achievements and rally for equality. The first recognition of women’s accomplishments was celebrated as National Women’s Day on February 28th, 1909. The concept of International Women’s Day was created by Clara Zetkin in 1910 and was officially celebrated for the first time in 1911 by multiple countries in Europe.

In 1975, the United Nations recognized and celebrated International Women’s Day for the first time, and it has grown in importance and impact each year since. In some countries, men honor the women in their lives on this day by presenting them with gifts as they would on Mother’s Day.

Past International Women’s Day Themes

Past International Women’s Day themes focused on domestic violence, unequal pay, gender equality, peace, and women’s health. International Women’s Day saw its first theme, “Celebrating the Past, Planning for the Future,” in 1996. Each theme is a campaign designed to raise awareness about women’s issues and how they impact people of all gender identities. The primary goal of every theme is to increase women’s equality around the globe.

Why and How We Celebrate

The reason for celebrating International Women’s Day is two-fold. Women in prior generations have made great sacrifices in the fight for equality. International Women’s Day recognizes these women and the progress they have made. However, we still have a long way to go. Women still haven’t achieved total equality. Gender bias and the pay gap still exist. International Women’s Day is an annual call to action to keep pushing for equality for women around the world.

The best way to celebrate women is to support them. This could look like shopping at a woman-owned local business, donating to a women’s charity, or taking time to appreciate the women in your life with a card or gift. International Women’s Day is an excellent time to get educated about issues women are facing and consider what you can do to help.

Running an IWD Activity

Many groups and organizations around the globe put together activities to celebrate International Women’s Day. They may put on a special event or run a social media campaign to raise awareness, celebrate women’s accomplishments, or challenge biased thinking in their audiences. These events can also be useful for fundraising to benefit women in need.

International Women’s Day 2022: Break the Bias

Bias is the driving force behind inequality. This year’s campaign asks everyone to become aware of conscious and unconscious gender stereotypes that hurt women. Becoming aware of one’s own bias can be a catalyst for fostering equality at home, at work, and in other social settings. This year’s Break the Bias campaign also challenges everyone to speak up against gender discrimination instead of staying silent. Bias exists, and the impact on women’s equality is severe. Now is the time to take action and Break the Bias.