Celebrating International Women’s Day: Honouring Contributions, Embracing Equality

March 8th, International Women’s Day (IWD) is not just another date on the calendar; it’s an important occasion to reflect, recognise, and celebrate the immense contributions women make in all spheres of life. Though the day is often seen through the lens of gender equality and women’s rights, but it is much more than that. It's about honouring women for their unique and often uncelebrated roles in society. It is about saying thank you to those who often go above and beyond without a lot of recognition.

In many fields, from business to education, politics to arts, women have continuously worked to shape the world we live in. They have contributed even when the system has been stacked against them. They have fought and persevered, however, despite their efforts and accomplishments, women are often underrepresented or overlooked, whether it’s in history books or boardrooms. International Women's Day offers an opportunity to correct that imbalance. It is a day to pause and acknowledge the achievements of women and celebrate what they mean to humanity, after all without them, we don’t exist.

You might think this is just some equality activity, and you may be tempted to try to right wrongs. In my view at least, equality is not the intent. No one is equal; we are all different and contribute in different ways. March 8th is about creating a time when due recognition is given for the unique contributions women give to our world and to say thank you.

Why Celebrate International Women's Day?

International Women's Day (IWD) is about much more than celebrating women’s achievements; it’s about embracing an ethos of equality and recognition that benefits everyone. As a society, we can better appreciate the significant roles both male and female figures play, shaping the world in different ways. Men and women both bring distinct perspectives and qualities, and by celebrating both, we can foster environments that nurture and respect diversity in thought, action, and leadership.

The heart of IWD is about acknowledging the critical yet often invisible work of women. Whether it’s at home, in the workplace, within communities, in politics, in science, in sport, in art, in music, or even just in kissing a scraped knee; it all matters in its own time and context.

Simple but Special Ways Schools Can Celebrate International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is an often overlooked event. Strangely, in education, where women often dominate the faculty gender balance, it seems to be a day that receives less publicity than days such as Halloween. Yes, the profound impact of women in the world is often overshadowed by a carved pumpkin and fake blood.

As an educator or a member of a school community, there are simple but impactful ways to make International Women’s Day feel special and genuine. Here are some ideas that can foster a sense of warmth and celebration:

1. Student-Led Projects and Presentations

Allow students to research and present the lives of influential women in history. This could include local figures, global trailblazers, or women within the school community. By giving students the opportunity to share these stories, you not only educate them but also empower them to engage in meaningful conversations about gender equality. Display these in the hallways or in your school’s celebration of learning gallery. You could also have a special assembly to celebrate the day.

2. Create a ‘Wall of Women’

Dedicate a space in the school to celebrating women’s achievements. The ‘Wall of Women’ could feature pictures, quotes, and short biographies of both famous and lesser-known women who have made significant contributions in various fields. This visual display can serve as a powerful reminder of women’s accomplishments year-round. Again, deck the hallways and class pin boards, post to the school’s social media and let everybody know that you celebrate such an important day.

3. Invite Guest Speakers

Invite inspiring women from your community, whether they’re teachers, local entrepreneurs, or activists, to speak to students about their careers, their challenges, and their successes. This helps students connect with real-life role models and understand the diverse paths women can take to achieve greatness.

4. Organise a ‘Celebrate Her’ Day

Dedicate the day to celebrating the women within your school. This could involve simple acts of appreciation, like writing thank-you notes to female staff members, students, and leaders for their contributions. Genuine, personal appreciation can go a long way in making women feel seen and valued. Use your school's social media to promote your female staff and ensure the world knows you value them.

5. Themed Class Discussions or Lessons

Encourage open dialogue about celebrating the achievements of women. These discussions can be incorporated into existing lessons, whether in history, literature, or social studies, to highlight the role women have played in shaping the world. Even better you could include the day in your curriculum planning to enshrine the activities. Focus on the idea that celebrating women’s achievements isn’t just about recognising their success; it’s also about encouraging future generations to keep pushing boundaries.

6. Host an IWD Fundraiser for a Women's Charity

A school-wide fundraising event, such as a cookie bake sale, talent show, or charity walk, can raise money for causes that support women’s rights, such as education for girls or healthcare for women in regions of the world where women don’t have equality and need an extra hand to continue their important work. This would not only celebrate IWD but also instill a sense of social responsibility in the students.

7. Celebrate Women’s Achievements in Daily School Life

Recognise the everyday contributions of women within the school community. Take a moment to acknowledge the efforts of female teachers, staff, and administrators who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the school a nurturing, educational environment. You could even make a special point to highlight a “Woman of the Week” throughout March to keep the celebration going beyond just the day. I have written about the importance of celebrating the contributions of school community members and International Women’s Day is an opportunity to build on this.

Final Thoughts: Cultivating a Culture of Recognition

International Women’s Day is more than just a day; it’s an ongoing opportunity to cultivate a culture of recognition, respect, and equality. Every day should be an opportunity to honour and value the contributions of women and men alike, but IWD serves as a powerful reminder of the need to celebrate women's’ unique role in society.

By recognising women for the special qualities they bring to the table, whether in leadership, caregiving, or community-building, schools can help foster a more inclusive and balanced world. Simple but thoughtful gestures, such as those mentioned above, can communicate genuine warmth, show appreciation, and ensure that women are not just heard, but celebrated.

How do you plan to create spaces where both men and women are equally valued for their individual contributions? And how will your school let them know that their combined efforts make the world a better place are truly appreciated?

It's March 8th so you still have time to plan.

Happy International Women's Day!