What Does International Women’s Day Mean to Me? #InvestinWomen
4th March 2024
“Although International Women’s Day is an important marker, I believe that every day should count when it comes to working towards gender parity.
Words: Rosemary Delaney – Founder of WMB
International Women’s Day on March 8th will mean different things to different people depending on their personal circumstances.
For so many, it’s just another day to fight for basic survival; for others, it’s a day of recognition, of contemplation and of celebration.
I count myself very fortunate. I have always believed in my self-worth – that is not to say that I don’t have moments of self-doubt! I enjoyed a good education – even if I didn’t always appreciate it! I live in a loving and safe environment, and I count my lucky stars that gender has not precluded me from reaching for the stars – although, there will always be some overcast nights to endure!
For me, life is about having the power to choose. And that includes the power to make a difference.
I guess that’s why I left my permanent, pensionable job all those years ago to establish WMB – the platform for businesswomen and female entrepreneurs. I want to ‘be the change’ that I want to see in this world. I hope for a world where gender doesn’t play a part – where we are all equal. A world where inclusion reigns.
I am a strong believer in the adage: ‘You get out of life what you put in’. However, what happens if EVERY DAY, because you are a WOMAN, you are not afforded an education? Because of your GENDER you are not allowed to have dreams – any dreams. You are taught that you are INFERIOR; you are not provided with the means to break out from your CHAINS of constraint. You have no financial independence and are forced to believe you have no VALUE whatsoever. This is what life looks like in a world of disparity. This is the reality for so many millions of our sisters.
This year, the theme for International Women’s Day, as chosen by the United Nations is: ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate progress. The world is facing many crises, ranging from geopolitical conflicts to soaring poverty levels and the escalating impacts of climate change.
These challenges can only be addressed by solutions that EMPOWER WOMEN. By investing in women, the UN believes that we can spark change and speed the transition towards a healthier, safer, and more equal world for all.
I share this belief and I’m sure you do too.
The UN has set out five key areas that require joint action to ensure that women are not left behind:
•Investing in women, a human rights issue: Time is running out. Gender equality is the greatest human rights challenge, benefiting everyone.
•Ending poverty: Due to the COVID pandemic and conflicts, 75 million more people have fallen into severe poverty since 2020. Immediate action is crucial to prevent over 342 million women and girls living in poverty by 2030.
•Implementing gender-responsive financing: Conflicts and rising prices may lead 75% of countries to cut public spending by 2025, negatively impacting women and their essential services.
•Shifting to a green economy and care society: The current economic system disproportionately affects women. Advocates propose a shift to a green economy and care society to amplify women’s voices.
•Supporting feminist change-makers: Despite leading efforts, feminist organisations receive only 0.13% of official development assistance.
This International Women’s Day, let’s unite to transform challenges into opportunities and shape a better future for all! #InvestinWomen
