Someday in the future, our female youth may think of us who are over 60 as ‘the women before us.’ We are the women who inspire their future. We are the women who went through the fires of life, held fast and came out more whole and wholesome.
We opened paths that were blocked and busted down stereotypes that were hopeless, becoming more educated, employable and involved in world decisions.
We supported younger women to become a voice against abusive predators and stand up for their rights. We blazoned the ideals of equality and equity across the world. History was made by us, and we should be proud!
International Women’s Day
We need to acknowledge what we have accomplished as we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2018. This annual event commemorates women’s achievements and elevates our quest for gender equality around the world.
We celebrate national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic and political diversity. We also disabuse ageism. I devoted one of the sections in my book Revivement: Having a Life After Making a Living to celebrating age.
Appreciating Forerunners
Now is also the time to appreciate the women who paved the way for us through the centuries by speaking up, contributing through their work, organizing for change and donating their services, ideas, abilities and so much more.
They brought negligent issues before the world so the collective mind could see the truth and decide to change.
Although the world has been slow to acknowledge their contributions and slower to make changes, women have come to a place in history where there is no turning back. Women are moving forward and we must ensure the survival of our history and blazon a trail for our future.
Time to Salute All Women
Women are responding in greater numbers than ever to the abuse they’ve withstood for centuries. Like Eleanor Roosevelt said, “A woman is like a tea bag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.”
Let’s salute the thousands of women who have overcome being in hot water and participated in some form in empowering others with values, truth and an equitable world. We need to acknowledge these notable women for their courage and influence.
We’re in This Together
Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist said, “This story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist or to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”
Some Things You Can Do
- Make your voice heard whenever you see inappropriate behavior toward women or bashing of women’s rights.
- Don’t accept less than your worth in a relationship or job.
- Model the types of behaviors you want others to demonstrate.
- Show your intelligence, perseverance and success.
- Encourage younger women to do the same.
We would love to hear your views about the present, past and future of women as we continue to improve our world and our lives.
What are your aspirations for women in the future? What do we need to do to bring equity and equality to women? How will we close the gender gaps more quickly? What else would you like to share? Please join the conversation below.
