Tuesday, March 8, 2022, marks International Women’s Day. This day has steadily become a global holiday, celebrated every year around the world to shed a spotlight on the accomplishments of women and acknowledge the areas that are still in need of improvement as far as bridging the gap between the genders. Gender equality, reproductive rights, and domestic abuse are just a few of the front and center topics come International Women’s Day.
Some contend that the day actually started in New York City back in 1909. And then, in 1911, there were over 1 million people who showed up to acknowledge International Women’s Day, particularly in European countries. Today, it is widely commemorated around the globe. And awareness of women’s rights in all aspects of life is a central concern not only on this day but throughout the year.
This Year’s Theme: #BreakTheBias
This year‘s theme for International Women’s Day is #breakthebias. The effort surrounds getting people to acknowledge that there is rampant gender stereotyping into gender discrimination. Even today, even in 2022. People are being called upon to step in and do something meaningful if they actively witness such discrimination.
Especially when it comes to setting examples for young girls and empowering the next generation of women, International Women’s Day and the efforts made as a result of this day have become significant as far as gender equality advancements are concerned.
What Can Small Businesses Do on International Women’s Day?
As a small business owner, you have an opportunity to do something significant this International Women’s Day, take a stand and make your voice and that of your brand heard. So what exactly can and should you do?
Post about it on your social media.
You likely have multiple social media accounts. Use those accounts today to send a message about where your company stands regarding gender equality. You could post exciting facts. You might post messages of encouragement. You could highlight women throughout history. There are many ways to use social media to celebrate International Women’s Day.
Take the time to learn about the gender pay gap.
The gender pay gap is a serious issue in multiple countries worldwide. According to recent statistics, only 58% of that gap is closed so far; the pandemic is not helping matters. Simply put, the gender pay gap equates to the difference in pay between women and men. Often, for the same job with the same responsibilities, there will be a disparity in how much a man makes versus what a woman makes. International Women’s Day is the perfect time to learn more about this and see, potentially, what you could do to help.
Host a panel discussion regarding gender rights.
Numerous companies are engaging in or sponsoring panel discussions to raise awareness about various facets of gender discrimination. Why not do so locally?
Donate to a relevant charity.
There are numerous nonprofit organizations out there that do a great deal to help improve the circumstances of various groups of women. Find one you believe in and donate to it this International Women’s Day. The company as a whole can contribute to a woman’s organization, one that matters to you.
Have a work celebration.
You could plan a whole day around acknowledging and celebrating women. Such a day might consist of notable speakers, having a dedicated luncheon, and giving presentations about specific topics related to gender equality. Get creative here with how you mark this day.
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