"An equal world is an enabled world" - International Women's Day
This Year Sunday 8th March marks International Women’s Day 2020, with the theme “An equal world is an enabled world”.
International Women’s day has been going on for over a century, with the first gathering in 1911. It’s celebrated internationally and is for a celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world. It also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality, which still hasn’t been truly reached, unfortunately.
As a drag queen, I most certainly celebrate International Women’s Day. I’ve heard people say that drag queens have no business celebrating IWD, but in my view, telling someone they can’t celebrate and appreciate someone is ridiculous. And for those who claim drag queens mock women, I’d say it’s quite the opposite. My heroes are mostly women, my role models mostly women, the fictional characters I looked to as a kid (and still do!) were mostly women, the people who’ve shown me the most kindness and support throughout my journey on this planet… Yep, mostly women. So I celebrate because I’m thankful. And I celebrate because I believe we can still be better. It’s a wonderful time to pay respect to the strong women who have inspired me over the years, the
women who have changed our world for the better, and the women who just make the world a more pleasant place to be. See, this is another moment I get to pass something on that I love to share – Small acts of kindness are contagious and absolutely make a difference – It’s completely true!
I, like many others, believe in a world where all people are treated equally, with kindness, dignity and respect, regardless of gender, race, sexuality or any other part of their identity. Yes, people have differences, this is part of what makes us so rich and diverse as a species, but I still hope for a day where differences are celebrated instead of feared or persecuted. This is another reason I will be observing International Women’s Day. Any day that celebrates the women of our world, their achievements and the achievements they’ll make in the future is a cause that’s certainly worth getting behind. Think of the achievements our whole race could make if all people were treated equally. That’s a dream worth fighting for.
So why not join in with International Women’s Day 2020? Take some time to reflect on the powerful women in your own life, take some time to read up on women’s rights campaigns and remember the work of all those who came before you to ensure the rights we enjoy today. Time to think of your heroines, take a look into their histories and their work. And, most importantly, challenge some stereotypes or injustices – If you see something that needs changing for women, speak up! That last one isn’t restricted to IWD either. The world is changed by speaking up, no matter what day it is. You may think you’re just one voice, but one voice can get something started as well as making the person next to you feel the support they’ve never felt before. Remember, it’s your world. If you want to make it better, the power is yours.
