This year, March 8th marks 115 years since the first International Women’s Day.
That’s 115 years since those first women raised their voices, walked out of their jobs, and marched through the streets for equality, joined by millions of others across Europe.
Its aim today is the same as it was 115 years ago: to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. This also marks a call to action to accelerate gender equality and raise awareness of discrimination.
Today, International Women’s Day belongs to all groups collectively everywhere.
The colors Purple, Green, and White are the colors of women’s suffrage, and are widely adopted by International Women’s Day. These originated from the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK, founded in 1903.
PURPLE: signifies justice and dignity, and being loyal to the cause
GREEN: symbolizes hope
WHITE: represents purity. Yet, the wearing of white is a symbol of sisterhood and solidarity, respecting and representing the progress made by those who have fought for women’s suffrage.
Every year, a list of the top 10 women who are recognized for their exceptional influence, leadership, and impact is released on International Women’s Day.
The following 10 women are key figures likely to appear on this year’s list, according to research.
URSULA VON DER LEYEN (President, European Commission) continues to lead as one of the most powerful political figures in the world.
KAMALA HARRIS (Former U.S Vice President): recognized as a trailblazing political leader with historic influence.
CHRISTINE LAGARDE (President, European Central Bank): A strong, top-tier global presence in finance and policy.
MELINDA FRENCH GATES (Philanthropist/Pivotal Philanthropy): continues to drive major global change in health, education, and women’s economic empowerment.
GRETA THUNBERG (Climate Activist): recognized for her ongoing, influential fight against climate change.
MALALA YOUSAFZAI (Nobel Prize Laureate/ Activist): A steadfast leader in the fight for girls’ education.
MICHELLE OBAMA (Former First Lady/Author) continues to be a global icon for empowerment and education.
GIORGIA MELONI (Prime Minister of Italy): A prominent, influential leader in European politics.
JULIE SWEET (CEO Accenture): A leading voice in global business, technology, and professional services.
MARY BARRA (CEO General Motors) continues to lead in the automotive industry with a focus on future technology.
This list shows that women can achieve anything. So if you’re a woman sitting there reading this article right now, thinking, yeah, but I don’t have their skills, STOP THAT, RIGHT NOW!
Hold your head high and shout at the top of your voice, I CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING, I CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING, I CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING.
Because with this belief, you can reach any goal you set for yourself.
It’s with this belief that International Women’s Day will one day reach all the goals they originally set 115 years ago.
And it’s with this belief that one day women will be seen as equal to men.
This was written by our contributing writer, Leah Palmer.
Image Source: Pexels, Kampus Production
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