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12 Empowering Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day in your Community!

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It’s a day to recognize the progress made toward gender equality and to act in empowering ways to accelerate it. This year’s theme is ‘Inspire Inclusion’, which creates a great opportunity to spark up some conversations regarding intersectionality and the inclusion of women from all spaces.

One powerful way to commemorate this day is by celebrating it in your own community. Here are 12 inspiring ways to do just that, ensuring that the voices and experiences of women are uplifted and honored.

12 Empowering Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day:

1. Participate in Women-Focused Community Events

Participate in women-focused community events to connect with fellow community members, celebrate women’s achievements, and support initiatives that promote gender equality. Whether it’s attending the Open House at the YWCA, or attending an Art Fair, these events provide opportunities to network, learn, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Here is an example of events happening in Vancouver for IWD, check your local listings for events in your area. If you can’t find any, maybe you can suggest (or organize) some for next year

By actively engaging in women-focused community events, you contribute to building a stronger, more inclusive community where women’s voices are heard, valued, and uplifted. Plus, you’ll gain inspiration and empowerment to advocate for positive change in your community and beyond.

women focused events

2. Donate to Women’s Causes

Consider making a donation to organizations or initiatives that support women’s rights, empowerment, and equality. Your financial support can help fund programs and services that benefit women in your community and beyond.

3. Volunteer for Women-Focused Organizations

Get involved with local organizations that support women’s rights, such as women’s shelters, mentorship programs, or advocacy groups. Volunteering your time and skills is a tangible way to make a difference in the lives of women in your community.

volunteer at women's organizations

4. Promote Gender-Inclusive Language

Help raise awareness about the importance of using gender-inclusive language in everyday communication. Encourage the use of non-binary pronouns and inclusive terminology to create welcoming and respectful spaces for people of all genders.

5. Support Women-Owned Businesses

Make a conscious effort to patronize women-owned businesses in your community, whether it’s shopping at a local boutique, dining at a women-owned restaurant, or hiring a female service provider. Your support helps empower women economically and promotes gender equality in the marketplace.

support women's business

6. Watch a Documentary About Women’s Rights

Watch a documentary about women’s rights to gain insight into the historical struggles, current challenges, and triumphs of the women’s rights movement globally. Documentaries such as “She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry,” “Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide,” or “RBG” offer powerful narratives that educate, inspire, and motivate viewers to take action in support of gender equality and women’s empowerment.

After watching, consider sharing your reflections, raising awareness, and exploring ways to advocate for women’s rights in your local community and beyond.

7. Educate Yourself and Others

Take the time to educate yourself about women’s issues, feminist history, and current challenges facing women around the world. Share what you learn with friends, family, and colleagues to spark conversations and increase awareness.

8. Support Women’s Sports Programs

Attend local women’s sports events or volunteer to coach or mentor girls’ sports teams. Promote gender equality in sports by advocating for equal opportunities, resources, and recognition for female athletes at all levels of competition.

support women's sports

9. Participate in Clothing Swaps

Organize or participate in clothing swaps where individuals can exchange gently used clothing, accessories, and shoes. Promote sustainable fashion practices and support initiatives that empower women through access to affordable clothing options.

10. Amplify Women’s Voices on Social Media

Amplifying women’s voices on social media is a powerful way to contribute to the visibility and recognition of women’s achievements, perspectives, and experiences. Share articles, videos, and posts authored by women on topics ranging from politics and business to culture and social issues. Use your platform to follow women creators, promote female-led initiatives, highlight women’s accomplishments, and showcase diverse voices within the feminist movement.

positive social media

Additionally, actively engage with and amplify the voices of women by retweeting, sharing, and commenting on their content. By leveraging your social media presence to uplift women’s voices, you help create a more inclusive and equitable online space while fostering meaningful dialogue and driving positive change in society.

11. Support Maternal Health Initiatives

Volunteer or donate to organizations that provide maternal health services, prenatal care, and support for expectant mothers in underserved communities. Advocate for access to affordable healthcare and reproductive services for all women.

12. Promote Inclusivity and Diversity

Advocate for inclusivity and diversity in your community spaces, workplaces, and organizations. Encourage representation of women from diverse backgrounds and identities and work towards creating inclusive environments where all women feel valued and respected.

International Women’s Day is not just a day for celebration; it’s a call to action for gender equality. By celebrating IWD in your community and taking concrete steps to empower women, you contribute to a more just and equitable world for all. Whether through education, advocacy, or community-building, every action counts in the journey toward gender equality. So, let’s come together to celebrate the achievements of women, amplify their voices, and continue the fight for a more inclusive future.

If you’re looking for more inspiration on how to celebrate, go to the 365give blog or check out these blog posts :

10 Ways to Support and Celebrate Women in Your Community

Gratitude to International Women Who Have Changed the World

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Aliya Hussein is a writer and mental health advocate. She's dabbled in journalism, marketing, film, and is now focused on helping others through the art of self-expression. Her work can be found at 604 Now, Thrive Global, and CBC. She's currently doing her Master's in Mental Health Counseling and in her free time enjoys a strong cup of tea, adventuring with her partner, and badly rated horror movies. Her three favorite ways to give back are to volunteer time to those in crisis, treat friends to pick-me-ups, and recycle.

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