March 8th marks the annual worldwide celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) whereby individuals and groups unify to raise awareness and express solidarity towards the women’s rights movement.
IWD is commemorated in a variety of ways worldwide; it is a public holiday in several countries and observed socially or locally in others to celebrate and promote the achievements of women. The United Nations observes the day in connection with a particular issue, campaign, or theme in women’s rights. Nevertheless, in various part for the world, IWD still reflects its political origins, being marked by protests and calls for radical change.
At EP, we asked our colleagues identifying as women to reflect on their feelings of International Women’s Day and what it means to them. Today, we would like to share these with you as part of our celebration and awareness of the significance attached to this day.
“International Women’s Day allows us to reflect on the journey and struggles of the women’s rights movement. It is very important for us to celebrate the achievements whilst paying attention to the challenges we still face. This day, and every other day for that matter, allows me to share solidarity with women who are protesting and fighting for their rights across the world. Watching powerful women protest in the anti-Hijab movements in Iran, against police brutality, against the wave of spiking, reproductive rights, equal wages and so much more. I am thankful to work and live amongst various inspirational women, and I aspire to use platforms I have to support the women’s rights movement.”
Sophie Stanton – Planner
“International Women’s Day gives me the opportunity to reflect. It shines a light on the achievements made by the amazing, strong women both in my life and across the world, but also highlights that there is still more to do to ensure that every women worldwide gets the opportunities they deserve.”
Rosie Eccleston – Student Planner
“I’ll be spending International Women’s Day with my favourite woman – my daughter. Her zest for life and joy at discovering the built and natural environment spur me on to try to leave the world in a better state than I found it. Being a mum has also really opened my eyes to how spaces that are designed with vulnerable groups in mind actually become better spaces for everyone to enjoy. So I want to celebrate every woman who is doing her bit to make the world better through design!”
Jo Rogers – Chartered Planner