This year, the theme of International Women’s Day is #BreakTheBias. Women, and men, around the world will celebrate by hosting events focused on creating a gender equal world where each of us actively challenge stereotypes, examine and address perceptions and celebrate women’s achievements globally.

With roots dating back to the early 1900’s, the United Nations first recognized International Women’s Day in 1975 and two years later, in December 1977, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution that proclaimed a United Nations Day for Women’s Rights to be observed by Member States.

Since that time, people around the world come together each year on March 8 to celebrate the social, cultural, political and economic advances made by women. Some groups use the day to advance specific causes such as gender parity and women’s equality while others fundraise for women’s charities.

If you are interested in celebrating this day, here are some ideas to consider:

• Read a book written by a woman about feminism — “The Second Sex” by Simone de Beauvoir, “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath or “We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie are some suggestions.
• Support women-owned businesses.
• Make a donation to a women’s charity.
• Strike the International Women’s Day #BreakTheBias pose, snap your photo and share it on social media — remember to tag #BreakTheBias and #IWD2022.
• Wear purple, the colour of International Women’s Day — purple signifies dignity, strength and justice.

If you are celebrating the day with children:

• Watch movies with strong female characters like Moana or Frozen with younger children.
• Encourage mixed-gender playdates and expand the range of activities for each gender.
• Study the biography of an inspiring woman with your teens.

And men, don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten you! Each year on November 19, more than 80 countries around the world celebrate International Men’s Day.

Originating much later in the 1990s, and not yet recognized by the United Nations, the focus of International Men’s Day is to highlight the positive values that men contribute to their communities, their families and the world.

But for the moment, this is our time to shine. However you decide to celebrate on March 8, have fun!

Images courtesy of www.internationalwomensday.com