As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024, we embrace the theme “Inspiring Inclusion,” a powerful reminder of our collective journey towards creating a world where every woman is seen, heard, and valued. This day is more than a moment of celebration; it’s a call to action for ensuring that women from all walks of life are included in every conversation, decision, and opportunity.
Inclusion means recognizing and celebrating the diverse experiences and perspectives women bring to our communities, workplaces, and societies. It’s about understanding that each woman’s voice enriches our collective narrative, driving innovation and fostering a more equitable world. Yet, the reality remains that many women, particularly those from marginalized communities, often find themselves on the sidelines.
True inclusion starts with each of us—through our introspection, advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to dismantling barriers. It’s about creating environments where women feel empowered to share their ideas and know that their contributions are valued. This International Women’s Day, let’s commit to being the architects of change, advocating for policies that promote gender equality, and setting examples in our personal and professional lives.
Inspiring inclusion is also about the smaller, everyday actions—the way we speak, the biases we challenge, and the spaces we create for open discussions on gender equality. It involves listening with empathy, acting with integrity, and embracing continuous learning. This year, let’s pledge to champion the cause of inclusion by celebrating women’s achievements, sharing stories of resilience, and acknowledging the biases and challenges that still exist.
Creating a culture of inclusion is a conscious choice to uplift and empower every woman. As we observe International Women’s Day, let’s embrace “Inspiring Inclusion” as more than a theme— let’s each make a promise to work towards a future where every woman can thrive, free from discrimination and oppression, and brimming with opportunities.
Together, we have the power to rewrite the narrative for women everywhere, making International Women’s Day 2024 a milestone towards a more inclusive and equitable future. Let’s rise together! In our unity lies our our strength and the promise of a better tomorrow for women around the globe.
Every month women from all over Canada are invited to join us at our Female Wave of Change monthly gatherings on Zoom. More information can be found on our website. https://vist.ly/382ij
Join us as we take action together for a more inclusive, just, and equitable future.
-Laureen Nowlan-Card
Vice-Chair, FWOC Canada