International Women’s Day which occurs yearly on March 8 means different things to different people, but the global focus on equality and celebration is clear. In this article, we place the spotlight on Dr. (Smt.) Rina Pathak, Principal, Seth M. R. Jaipuria School, Goel Campus, Faizabad Road, Lucknow who says that while we have come a long way and there has been lots of progress made, it’s important to mark the day to acknowledge that women continue to face challenges.
Throughout ancient and modern history, women have collaborated and lead purposeful action to redress inequality in the hope of a better future for their communities, children and themselves.
International Women’s Day (IWD) holds profound significance in the global quest for gender equality and women’s empowerment. Beyond merely celebrating women’s achievements, it serves as a rallying cry for action, reflection, and solidarity.
Dr. Pathak shares her unique perspective on IWD’s role in empowering women:
- I believe IWD provides a platform for amplifying the voices of women worldwide, especially those from marginalized communities whose stories often go unheard. It serves as a reminder that empowerment is not uniform but intersects with various identities, including race, ethnicity, class, sexuality, and ability.
- While feminism aims to address gender inequality, the intersectionality lens recognizes that women’s experiences are shaped by multiple factors. IWD serves as a catalyst for embracing intersectional feminism, advocating for the rights of all women regardless of their backgrounds.
- Beyond symbolic gestures, IWD serves as a call to action for systemic change. It demands accountability from governments, corporations, and institutions to enact policies that promote gender equality, ensure equal opportunities, and address issues such as gender-based violence and discrimination in the workplace.
- I am elated that we will be celebrating the diversity and inclusion of women’s experiences, acknowledging that there is no singular definition of womanhood. Embracing transgender and non-binary individuals, recognizing their contributions to the feminist movement and advocating for their rights.
- This will be an opportunity to educate and raise awareness about the challenges facing women globally, from access to education and healthcare to economic empowerment and political representation. By shedding light on these issues, we will be able to empower individuals to become agents of change in their communities.
- These initiatives inspire future generations of women and girls to dream big, break barriers, and pursue their aspirations without limitations. It provides role models and mentors, showcasing the achievements of women in various fields and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
In essence, International Women’s Day is not just a day of celebration but a catalyst for meaningful change, a reminder of the progress made, and the work that lies ahead in achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment worldwide.
