As young women at Warren Wilson College, we want to draw attention to International Women’s Day, fast approaching on March 8, as well as Women’s History month as a whole. March 8 presents the opportunity to commemorate and honor the work, history and lives of women across the world.
Women’s Day has been officially celebrated in many countries for nearly a hundred years through protests, revolutions or bouquets of flowers. In 1975, it was adopted by the United Nations as a global holiday. How do we want to celebrate? Here are some of our suggestions:
• Acknowledge that this is an international holiday and that our focus should stretch beyond our own borders and conceptions. Womanhood has many definitions.
• Volunteer your time to agencies working to support women. In Asheville alone, there are many organizations that approach these issues from diverse perspectives. Call and see if they need help. To name just one, OUR VOICE is active in the local community as an influential advocacy group.
• Contribute in other ways if you don’t have time to spare. Find a charity or organization you admire and offer money, goods or space.
• Be aware of the impact your consumer choices have. Women in the global economy often remain disenfranchised and invisible. Conscious spending can be a tool to eradicate exploitation.
• Honor the women in your life.
• Pay homage to what women have done worldwide. The month of March is a good opportunity to learn about women’s contributions and role in history.
• Empower yourselves.
Here at Warren Wilson College, we’ll mark March 8 with an IWD celebration from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in Canon Lounge. For more information about IWD and events worldwide, visit www.internationalwomensday.com or start a tradition of your own. Happy International Women’s Day.
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