What is International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than just celebrating womanhood. This day is about celebrating women’s achievements in cultural, political, social, and economic aspects.
And no, this is not a bloody revolution for women to conquer the world. It’s a movement to acknowledge how far women have come and an advocacy to voice out what is still needed to do to break down barriers to gender parity.
For years, this has become a growing movement focused around strength and unity for everyone—because you don’t really need a vagina to take part in this globally recognized celebration.
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day 2020
#EachforEqual
Everyday, each of us is entitled to have our own choices. We can choose to actively stand up against stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, and celebrate women’s achievements.
According to the IWD organization, “An equal world is an enabled world.” And indeed, a gender equal world is more thriving and harmonious.
The #EachforEqual campaign runs for the entire year. It does not end after March 8. This movement is set to become a guide for everyone to continuously strive for a gender equal world.
What International Women's Day Means to Women
Rafols Gervacio
“It was amazing to have witnessed how sports has evolved throughout the passing years that I played, and how its power have changed several lives. Teaching individuals teamwork, self-reliance, resilience, and confidence, it has been an instrument to show gender equality. Notable women in sports defy gender stereotypes and social norms, which has become an inspiration for young girls to showcase their capabilities.
As a football athlete/enthusiast, it is an honor to become one of the many women who broke barriers in the old sports’ biases. We continue to show discipline and strength through the love and passion of our sport. We can show the world a good game and that women today can level the playing field, both in sport and beyond.”
Monique Besabella
“There are a handful of instances in history that denote the marginalization of women in the art scene. However, as time went by, female artists gradually stepped in and broke gender biases through expression, passion, and dexterity.
Notable women like Frida Kahlo, Mary Cassatt, and Yayoi Kusama who made a pivotal role in the industry continue to inspire me and other women to this day. As an art enthusiast myself, I have grown in an art community dominated by the opposite gender. But with the passion to pursue the arts, I have paved way to prove myself and my work.
I still have a lot to learn, but I am glad to be in a position where my works are equally valued as with the rest of the people in the community.”
Irina Santillan
“🌈 #EachforEqual
In present times, the idea of belittling someone just because of his or her gender and sexual identity or preference is a nightmare. Why drag others down when they are only living their daily life? Is it really that important to hinder someone from becoming happy?
As an individual, I believe in an equal society where misogyny and sexism do not exist or is minimized, for that matter. Getting to live in a world where every one of us knows how to respect, love, and understand each other is a dream I always wish for. I want to see a future that shows just how important teamwork and equality is.
🌈 Personal Goals
Fun fact, I have had this book for 5 years and I still haven’t gotten to the ending. I think this sums up how I can be indecisive or lazy. But despite all of my flaws, I always strive to become a better version of myself. I guess I’ll read it until the last chapter this year 😉
Another goal I am also going to do my best to achieve is that I want to be part of the BFP. Aside from how it can fulfill one of my childhood dreams, I also want to be of help to my family.
🌈 What I can do that men can too
I’m…strong? I can lift heavy things like dispensers, beds, my parents, 10kg barbels, sackfuls of clothes, my sister, and i guess my dog (if he stays still).”
Ivory Pauline Escarro
“I, Ivory Pauline Escarro, believe that a woman is entitled to live with dignity and freedom from fear. I’m promoting woman empowerment as I express myself through art. Photography and songwriting have been my way of sharing the things that I believe in. I want to be the voice of the voiceless as I shoot reality and share my personal experiences through my songs.
I want every woman in the world to know that they are strong and powerful. Expression and affection is our best weapon. We can do everything that a man can do. Forget about gender stereotypes. Express yourself, love who you want to love, and be someone you want to be.”
Strike the #EachforEqual Pose
