My suggestions to celebrate 8 March Women's Day in accordance with its meaning
International Women's Day, celebrated on March 8 every year; It is a day where the achievements of women are made visible, the struggle for justice and equality is supported, equality and freedom are hoped, the importance of solidarity is reminded once again, boldly expressed and celebrated.
Why is March 8 important?
March 8, which started with the search for rights for women who died in a factory fire in New York in 1857 and was accepted as a global day by the United Nations General Assembly in 1977; Today is a very special day when women express their desire for visibility and equality in social, economic and political fields.
Women are exposed to sexist attitudes in every aspect of life - and almost every day; inequalities in business life, gender pay gap, violence against women are just a few of them. Although many achievements have been made regarding women's rights in the last century, these gains are not enough yet. It is not enough to celebrate March 8, which has a very impressive story and a strong message, by giving flowers or sharing quotes to women only. When this is the case, here are my suggestions to celebrate March 8 in a way that befits its name and meaning.
Share, raise awareness
March 8 is a very special and celebrated day. Celebrate March 8 on social media, with your family, at work, wherever you are; Talk about March 8; Try to explain its meaning, importance and value. Because raising awareness is one of the first steps of change.
Take concrete actions
To stand up against inequality, injustice and injustice; It is also very important to take concrete actions to promote hope, courage and solidarity. Take steps towards the things you want to change.
Support women's labor force participation
Aside from the centuries-long struggle for equality; Even since the beginning of the pandemic alone, women's lives have become quite difficult. With the onset of the pandemic, women who had to shoulder the invisible workload at home started to work in more difficult conditions, were dismissed or had to leave their jobs. Studies show that the rate of women who are affected by this situation psychologically and spiritually is not very low. 42% of women lost wages during the pandemic; On the other hand, 70% of women fear that their career development will be interrupted in this period.
Take a step towards better education for women
Education is essential for raising brave, productive, self-sufficient women. If you have the financial strength, you can give scholarships, donate to associations established for the education of girls, participate in different donation organizations and bazaars, or voluntarily share your skills, knowledge or experience in social responsibility activities, institutions and associations.
Change your language and contribute to change
Social language is one of the most important things that inadvertently hurt gender equality. Choosing not to use many sexist proverbs, idioms and discourses that are used in our language, and warning those who use it whenever possible, is a very effective step in contributing to gender equality. On the other hand, do not treat your children as 'princess girls' or 'boys'; One of the ways to prevent gender discrimination that starts from birth is to prioritize the development of strong, fair, sensitive, respectful towards themselves and others.
Make your sisters feel that you are with them
Remind all your sisters and sisters that we are strong together, that we can overcome all difficulties together, that we can overcome all difficulties together, and that we can grow hope. Show the women in your life that you value them, say so, and celebrate their existence. Contribute to increase their self-confidence, self-love and self-worth. Become a supporter of rights struggles against discrimination against not only women but also different sexual orientations and sexual identities. Remember; either all of us or none of us.
Happy 8 March!