International Women's Day isn't just about giving a flower to a woman you appreciate and telling her she's great. It’s a day for recognising the achievements of women, and supporting women facing disadvantages around the world. March 8, is a symbol of the struggles that women around the world have undergone to gain equality and rights and a reminder of how far there is still to go.
You can actually support this cause in different ways, whether it’s educating yourself, helping to support a local or global cause, or even just taking a moment to call your mom — here are some ideas.
Appreciate the women in your life
Take the time to show the important women in your life how much you value them. It could be a small gesture – bringing your mentor a cup of coffee, giving your grandma a call, baking a cake for your mom. Check out our huge collection of recipes for some ideas of the tasty variety.
Give your time
Help out a cause that supports women and girls. Whether it’s volunteering locally or fundraising for an organisation supporting women and girls overseas, there is plenty you can do to make a difference in people’s lives. Think hosting a morning tea, holding a movie night, or organising a bake sale at your workplace. Some online resources to help find volunteer opportunities in your community include Seek Volunteer and Good Company, or you can find out about other charitable organisations you might want to support at Everyday Hero.
Get Active
Instead of simply giving a flower or a cupcake to a woman you think is awesome, considering actively participating in creating fair wages for women, supporting reproductive rights and care, and legislation that promotes equality.
Be inspired by strong women
Let the stories of extraordinary women and their accomplishments excite and motivate you. Watch a movie with an inspiring heroine, or read up on great women of history and today – such as 17-year-old Nobel Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai (pictured above), a Pakistani schoolgirl who was shot by the Taliban for standing up for education, but who continues to fight for equality and opportunity for girls. Check out these lists of books and films for some inspiring stories to start with.
Donate to a cause
If you’re short on time, donations of money and goods are always needed. Search Everyday Hero to find worthwhile causes to donate money to. Or, clean out your wardrobe and give some clothing to your local op shop, or organisations like Fitted for Work, or Dress for Success which helps disadvantaged women to gain employment.
Raise awareness
Mention that it's International Women's Day to people you know, your family, your coworkers, your friends. Discuss with them why it's an important day and why it's important to treat women with respect and to acknowledge their contributions to society.
How will you be celebrating International Women's Day this year?
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