While any day makes for a great opportunity to celebrate the women in your life, International Women’s Day (8th March) gives you one more reason to do so. It’s a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. This highly significant day focuses on improving women’s lives and increasing gender parity (equality between men and women).
The history of women’s struggles for gender equality and equal rights is long and inspiring. All the way from The Seneca falls movement in 1948 all the way to the #metoo movement, women have long been working towards a world of equality.
International Women’s Day was initially about ‘celebrating the past and planning the future’ which is now followed with the hashtag #BreaktheBias. The #BreaktheBias hashtag represents the work towards ‘gender equality’, and therefore breaking misogynistic stereotypes. From portrayals in TV and films to advertising, women are typically labelled as emotional, irrational and in need of care, whilst men are characterised as career-driven and strong.
These stereotypes can hold women back in certain career roles whilst potentially tearing down their mental and physical health. It is evident that women are able to take on and perfect ‘masculine roles’, therefore it’s crucial to eliminate these stereotypes and stand beside women around the world. By celebrating this day, you will encourage female empowerment and recognition towards women’s rights.
What is #BreaktheBias?
#BreaktheBias is a trending hashtag to ‘show solidarity’ and commit call out gender bias and discrimination. Take a picture with your arms in a cross against your chest and upload it with the hashtag #Breakthebias
Click here if you want to read our blog about women within the construction industry!