What is International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day (IWD) began in the 1900s to celebrate the achievements of women and campaign for gender equality.
Whilst the objective of the occasion hasn’t changed, the enormity of it has. With individuals and organisations worldwide, attending and hosting IWD celebrations over the course of a week rather than just one day.
Why do we still celebrate it?
We continue to celebrate International Women’s Day because gender inequality remains an issue.
In recent years, women’s rights have dominated international headlines. In 2018 alone, wave after wave of abuse allegations emerged; giving rise to the #MeToo movement. There is still a gender pay gap as well as uneven gender representation in certain professions e.g. politics. While figures globally suggest that women’s education, health, and violence (towards women) is still worse than that of men.
Celebrating International Women’s Day
There are many ways you can get involved with and celebrate International Women’s Day. You can, for example, make a pledge for parity, attend or even host an IWD event.
Earlier this week, Rezoomo attended an excellent IWD event at the Bank of Ireland Workbench, Cork. Here we had the privilege of hearing from Joy Neville, former Ireland Woman’s Rugby International Captain and current Rugby International Referee. Working as a referee in a male-dominated sport, Joy encountered some resistance and skepticism. But she found strength and resolve in her favorite quote ‘The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me’ (Ayn Rand).
At Rezoomo HQ, in celebration of IWD and inspired by Joy, we have compiled a selection of our favorite quotes from inspirational women past and present. In the hopes that these words, which have resonated with us, might go on to encourage and motivate you too!
