I do not think I was always indifferent towards the concept of International Women’s Day. It is only when I was about 17 or 18 that I realized it is only on one day that women are treated correctly, but the other 364(5) days, they are not treated well in the world.
I think it all came together when I began reading up about the struggles and challenges women across the world face in everything they do and just by being a woman in a male-dominated world. I am also of the opinion that this day has become performative and superficial because the original meaning of the day has been lost, which was supposed to spread awareness about women’s issues and empower them above all else.
Here are some lines from our M2D Team on what they feel about International Women’s Day:
“International Women’s Day means celebrating the force women are to me. It is a time to reflect on solutions to limit and eradicate the injustices they have faced. What's more, it is a reminder of their beauty, fierceness, bravery, wisdom, leadership, power, resilience, and so much more.” - Francine, Founder
"What International Women's Day means to me is a celebration of all that women bring to the table - passion, leadership, and impact." - Victoria Jurincic, Director, Business Planning and Fundraising
"For me, international women's day is an opportunity for us to celebrate how far we have come in shrinking the gap in gender inequality. Moreover, it is an event that forces us to remember how much work there is left to do and bring attention to the issues we still face. It gives us a reason to come together and discuss ways we can make concrete changes going forward to rectify those issues." - Cara-Lee Lewis, Treasurer
“International Women’s Day is an opportunity for both women and our allies to acknowledge and celebrate women around the world; to counter negative gender stereotypes, and to unite and unleash our collective energy in achieving a duly gender-equal society.” - Shefa, Secretary of Board
“Despite how great the holiday is, I wish I could see more active changes in our society. It's disheartening knowing how many men still get upset by this holiday.” - Ericka, Social Media Coordinator
“According to me, it is a day to appreciate and celebrate all the contributions of women to society. At the same time, it is that day when we can talk about the issues that women are facing in different parts of the world and support them, more importantly, help them, if possible, by all means. One of our core ideas of sharing experiences by opening up is the key thing we are doing which is what we should encourage day in and out passing the message repeatedly.” - Ajay, Community Engagement Specialist
“To me, International Women's Day is a day to really appreciate all types of women around the world, from past and present. There have been so many incredible women in history that have changed the definition of what being a woman is and I believe it is important to recognize them. It is also a day to raise awareness of current women's health and rights issues both in Canada and around the world.” - Catherine, Graphic Designer
“To me, International Women's Day is that one day, we get to celebrate our identity as a woman. From all our different identities of nationality, class, religion, and ethnicity that usually take precedence. It reminds us that we're not alone and despite our differences, as a collective, we could accomplish just about anything together!” -Jewel, Community Engagement Specialist
"Admittedly, International Women's Day is not something that I have celebrated a lot in my adult life. I can get so easily caught up in the events of everyday life and the challenges of modern-day womanhood that I forget to take time to reflect on the beauty and resiliency that comes with being a woman. IWD provides an opportunity for us to reflect and celebrate the lives of the women that have come before us, our peers and the generation that is looking to us. For me, that also includes centring and celebrating the stories of black women. There is still so much work to be done but there is also so much joy to be shared." - Kemorine, Project Admin Assistant
“I grew up in Ukraine where it's pretty much a national holiday when men appreciate women (by giving flowers and presents). It's one of those patriarchal things which I hope changes to recognize women's rights more than just beauty.” - Liz, Graphic Designer, and Content Writer
“Celebrating any type of achievements that women have contributed in the world; but also, beyond that; advocating for women's rights and equality. Women are more than what society has defined them as and this can only be done through the significance of breaking down stereotypes and embracing diversity within communities as well as on a global scale.” - Samara, Project Coordinator
“To me, International Women’s Day is a great way to spread awareness about women's health especially period awareness and accessibility to feminine hygiene products. Also, to spread awareness about toxic beauty standards and spread body positivity.” - Shreya, Graphic Designer
“International Women’s Day is a day to acknowledge a community of allies and recognize the strength and unity that lies within that group. A space where you can give and take to either learn from those who inspire you or guide the ones you inspire.”- Taija, Content Creator
Despite my reservations to celebrate this day, I firmly believe in the power of women. I wish you all a happy International Women’s Day from the M2D Team!
Post by Ranak