International Women's Day 2018

International Women's Day is a day which celebrates the social, economic, political, and cultural accomplishments of women. The movement began back in 1909, when 15,000 women marched through New York demanding simple rights which still seem complicated to have today. Some rights that women have been, and are still fighting for, is equality in regards to pay, rights, and to basically not be harassed. Rallies, performances, as well as speeches are used to commemorate women across the world.

Every year also comes with a theme. This years is #Pressforprogress to push for gender parity globally. There have already been so many things that not only happened on this day, but throughout the year that have empowered women and change.

In honour of this day, Barbie came up with a way to commemorate female figures from both the past and present. I truly believe this is beneficial for young girls to be able to see dolls of different backgrounds, cultures and colour of skin as something to play with. The new release of these seventeen inspirational dolls include women such as Aviator Amelia Earhart; artist Frida Kahlo; and mathematician Katherine Johnson.Some current icons include US snowboarding Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim; Turkish windsurfing champion Cagla Kubat and British boxer Nicola Adams. Having women which come from different backgrounds and cultures will really show society that we can all be equal, and that women are capable of doing what men are. It also shows that there is no limit for what a woman can do. 

This year will also embark other movements that have occurred throughout the year. The #MeToo movement, which began back in October of 2017 and went viral after women began to speak up about sexual harassment and abuse. Many influential women have also been able to come forward in regards to sexual misconduct within the entertainment industry.An example of some of these cases include Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, James Franco and the most recent allegation which includes Ryan Seacrest. It seems as though women have been swept under the rug and now are facing such hardships trying to get over the abuse they went through. It's really important to commemorate a day honouring women because it shows generations to follow that they can really do anything and everything they set their mind to. It also helps young girls to have a voice when it comes to sexual violence. Having positive women role models help shape our society into becoming more accepting and fair. The women that have been using the #MeToo foundation to come forward about sexual misconduct are also giving the voices to some who may be too scared to speak up.

Another event which I found interesting that happened within the last year is the women’s march in Washington. The march in America’s capital held over one million people protesting for women’s rights globally. A lot of stars made their way to the march, allowing their voices to be heard.

And if you’re wondering, Toronto will too hold a rally today at 11:00 A.M beginning at Oise Auditorium.
The march will start at 1:00 P.M at 252 Bloor Street West. Get involved and may your voices be heard!