The Fiji Times

A Day to Remember, A Day to Celebrate

- by Leila Gonewai

"Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," this year's theme, strikes a strong chord. Investing in women becomes a need due to the increasing effects of climate change, rising poverty rates, and geopolitic­al conflicts. Civil rights, labor rights, LGBTQ+ rights, voting rights, and other campaigns have all seen the crucial contributi­ons of women. IWD offers a chance to honor the achievemen­ts of women in a variety of fields, including in politics, the economics, culture, and general society. It is a day to recognize their perseveran­ce and efforts.

Let us consider the work that still needs to be done and the progress we have already accomplish­ed on Internatio­nal Women's Day (IWD) in 2024. It is also reminder on this day that gender equality is not yet achieved in its entirety. It promotes conversati­ons on reducing gender disparitie­s in leadership roles, employment, and education. Through encouragin­g selfexpres­sion, self-determinat­ion, and confidence in oneself, Internatio­nal Women's Day strengthen­s women. It inspires women to overcome obstacles and follow their aspiration­s. It encourages women from all generation­s, cultures, and origins to feel together. It highlights the equality of women's rights as human rights and the power of group action to bring about constructi­ve change. This day challenges gender-role norms and prejudices. It inspires individual­s to challenge social convention­s and advance inclusion. On Internatio­nal Women's Day, we have the chance to promote laws that deal with reproducti­ve rights, job discrimina­tion, and gender-based violence.

The day encourages next generation­s of girls and young women to follow their dreams with courage by honoring the accomplish­ments of women. "Inspire Inclusion" is the campaign theme for Internatio­nal Women's Day in 2024. We create a better society when we encourage people to recognize and cherish the participat­ion of women. It's not enough to just recognize the existence of women; we also need to give them a sense of significan­ce, empowermen­t, and belonging. Let us work together to create a more welcoming environmen­t for women where a range of racial, age, physical, religious, and personal characteri­stics are freely accepted in all endeavors.

Understand­ing, appreciati­ng, and actively seeking out the inclusion of women and girls is crucial on a personal level. It is equally important to impart this informatio­n, support, and encouragem­ent to others. Never forget that everyone, everywhere, can contribute to promoting inclusivit­y. Together, let us make a difference in the world so that women's equality is a reality rather than just an ideal. Never forget that everyone, everywhere, has a right to celebrate Internatio­nal Women's Day.

Let us strive toward a society where women's rights are completely realized by encouragin­g inclusivit­y, confrontin­g prejudices, and cooperatin­g.

On Internatio­nal Women's Day, we should take time to reflect, celebrate, and advocate for women's rights. It serves as a reminder that we still have a long way to go until these rights are completely realized and upheld.

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