“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”
-Michelle Obama
Established 1977 by the United Nations, March 8th is International Women’s Day – a day to celebrate all women around the world. Today, we reflect on the incredible achievements and contributions of women in our communities and society. We also look towards the future in continuing to work together to advance the rights of women and empower all women and girls across the globe.
This year, 2017, the United Nation’s theme for International Women’s Day is: Women in the Changing World of Work: Planet 50-50 by 2030. Despite the progress that is made each year, women continue to be underrepresented in many areas of society, limiting ideas and creativity, and, ultimately, slowing down progress. Society benefits by investing in women and girls and enabling them to reach their full potential. This can be accomplished by providing all children access to primary and secondary education, encouraging and supporting women in STEM fields, fighting against inequality, reducing poverty, and putting an end to discrimination and violence against women.
It is also interesting to note that March 8th is celebrated and observed in many countries around the world as Mother’s Day. Romania is one example of many. As of 2009, the first Sunday of May has been established as the official Mother’s Day in Romania. However, March 8th is still widely celebrated throughout Romania as Mother’s Day together with International Women’s Day. Traditionally, on this day, children buy flowers for their mothers and grandmothers to show their appreciation.
Let us continue to rejoice and celebrate all women and girls everywhere, not just today, but everyday. We must commit to action in developing solutions for the many challenges facing women and girls. From this day forward, let us unite and work together to build a better future by empowering women and girls all around the world!
Share this post on social media to celebrate and to show your appreciation for women and girls by using the hashtags: #IWD2017 #WomensDay and #BeBoldForChange