On a different note, let’s not rush into celebrating and commending the idea of an International Men’s Day just yet. There’s already one on November 19, in case you didn’t know. The reason is not what you might think.
It’s not because women have achieved equality with men, erasing the need to honor them. It’s more about the superficial and insincere nature of International Women’s Day.
In a world where powerful men continue to protect each other, women face violence and discrimination daily. Despite this, many workplaces struggle with how to mark International Women’s Day. The usual solution? A cake, some inspiring words, and then back to business as usual.
In the UK, only 9% of top business leaders are women, and gender pay gaps persist, especially for those taking parental leave. Women bear the brunt of workplace changes and layoffs, even before considering other factors like race, religion, or disability.
Yet, when March 8 rolls around, the pink decorations come out, and we celebrate women, as if without them, none of us would exist.
Yes, I acknowledge my privilege as a white middle-class woman in a democratic society. I support efforts to address inequality and advocate for change, but that doesn’t mean I have to accept the shallow gestures of International Women’s Day in the UK.
This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” feels particularly empty. Past themes like #BreakTheBias and #InspireInclusion have been equally uninspiring. The imagery on the International Women’s Day website, with people holding out their hands in a gesture of giving, feels disconnected from the real issues women face.
Maybe I should be more positive, but what are women supposed to give this year? Should we offer up our images for AI-generated exploitation? Surrender more control over our bodies to powerful men? Maybe we should just silence ourselves.
So, if someone asks you to do something for International Women’s Day, suggest they focus on closing the gender pay gap, promoting equity in career advancement, and improving parental benefits. Get these basics right, and maybe next year, I’ll bake that celebration cake with a smile.