Our mission at Woven Threads is to accelerate social change through creative conversations, and we believe that International Women’s Day (IWD) is the perfect opportunity to start talking. On Wednesday, March 8 this week, welcome in IWD by considering the importance of listening to women’s voices and acknowledging the input they have in the global community. Take time to educate yourself on issues affecting women of colour and transgender women - these are the people who have historically been the driving force behind social change. This year’s theme #EmbraceEquity is a call to action for everyone, no matter their gender. The IWD website describes this theme as a way to “Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to drive gender parity.”
Woven Threads was lucky to hear Rachael Natoli’s story in our mental health series, Stories from Within. Rachael’s journey from escaping an abusive relationship to establishing a safe and happy life for herself and her children demonstrates the resilience and strength that women show in the face of adversity. Although it hasn’t been easy, Rachael continues to share her story, in the hope that it will inspire courage in those facing similar challenges. In fact, Rachael has started the Lokahi Foundation - a service providing case management support as well as empowerment courses for those who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence. Stories such as Rachael’s highlight achievements of strong willed women, but also show that we have a long way to go before gendered violence is eradicated. In order to #EmbraceEquity, society must put in the work to “raise awareness about discrimination”.
Part of this work could include attending the wide array of events that are occurring for IWD on a global scale. Simply click this link and enter your town or city to see what you can join in on. There’s something for everyone - from engineer panels to seed bombing workshops. Beyond the official events, take time to be around the women in your life. Engage with women content producers, whether that be an author or your favourite social media influencer. Most importantly, don’t limit your engagement with women’s issues to just this week - keep working to #EmbraceEquity throughout your life.
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