Beyond Flowers: Reimagining International Women's Day

International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8 every year, stands for much more than flowers.
Flowers and social media posts are great, but the focal point of the day should actually be on the ability
to think about the progress made toward gender equality, acknowledge the challenges we face in that
endeavor, and recommit oneself to the work at hand.

This year’s celebration must focus on something more than the appreciation of women at the surface
level. One should discuss systemic barriers to women’s advancement. From the gender pay gap that
never seems to close to fewer women finding themselves in leadership positions, the struggle for
equality remains a pertinent issue.

International Women’s Day is a challenge. It serves as a reminder that gender equality is not a question
of “women’s rights”. It is rather a question of the most basic human rights. It improves everyone’s
economic situations and promotes better health. Also, it promotes justice for all people, as well.

On this day, we really should turn the heat up on the voices of those women who dare to break barriers
and bring about changes. Let us celebrate the power of those women who keep holding their heads high
despite difficult circumstances. Let us lend our support to initiatives that empower women and girls to
enjoy these rights: education, health care, and economic opportunities.

On that note, we need to have deep conversations on intersectionality of gender, as the experiences of
women arise from factors such as race, ethnic orientation, class, and sexual orientation. Equality in its
true sense will insist upon going beyond broad generalizations and giving due regard to the different
hurdles faced by the different groups of women.

Let on this International Womens’ Day just pledge for one such thing that we will not remain passive
observers but will become active participant in creating the world that would let every woman and girl
thrive. Let us forget only flowers but embrace our actions as well as our advocacy for anthem and
meaningful change.