Forging conversation about the differences between equity and equality is what the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) is set to explore.
This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity.
The words equity and equality are often used interchangeably. The root word they share is aequus, meaning “even,” “fair,” or “equal.” Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.
IWD is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
“The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women’s achievements or rally for women’s equality,” says IWD’s website.
Marked annually on Mar. 8, IWD is one of the most important days of the year to; celebrate women’s achievements; educate and awareness raise for women’s equality; call for positive change advancing women; lobby for accelerated gender parity; and fundraise for female-focused charities.
“Everyone, everywhere can play a part in helping forge gender equality,” said the IWD.
Everyone can challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias and seek out inclusion, according to the IWD.
“To truly embrace equity means to deeply believe, value, and seek out differences as a necessary and positive element of life. To embrace equity means to understand the journey required to achieve women’s equality,” said the IWD.
There are many ways to participate in and support IWD. Whether hosting an event, running a campaign, launching an initiative, reporting on achievement, donating to a female-focused charity, or more, there are many ways you can support IWD.
According to the organization, identifying, celebrating, and increasing the visibility of women’s achievements can help forge equality. Strategic collaborations based on a foundation of shared purpose, trust, and appreciation can impact positive change for women. Worldwide awareness raising via meaningful narratives, resources, and activity can help combat gender bias and discrimination to accelerate gender parity.
Visit, internationalwomensday.com/resources for social media images, activities, and more ways to participate in IWD 2023. Share images online using #EmbraceEquity on Wed. Mar. 8.
