Ways to support women
Throughout the month, the government will also be sharing programs, opportunities and support systems that address women’s issues and concerns. Other agencies and private organizations are being encouraged to participate in the celebrations by sharing relevant information and/or launching events and activities that are aligned with the theme or the pressing issues about women.
TODAY is Day 1 of the celebration of women’s month. And on March 8, the whole world celebrates Women’s Day. The International Women’s Day 2021 campaign theme is #Choosetochallenge— it is an invitation to challenge inequalities, bias, and other issues against women. The organizers believe that this act of challenging can lead to change, that once we start calling out unfair practices and behavior, we’ll be helping to create a more inclusive environment.
In the Philippines, the government leads the national women’s month celebration via the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW). Their theme for this year is Juana Laban sa Pandemya: Kaya! with the hashtag #Womenmakechange.
Under this campaign, the year’s highlights will focus on “women’s participation in battling the pandemic and on the discussion of gender issues exacerbated by the pandemic.” But aside from looking at the challenges that women face in the midst of this crisis, the women who thrived, and continue to do so despite the pandemic will also be recognized.
Throughout the month, the government will also be sharing programs, opportunities and support systems that address women’s issues and concerns. Other agencies and private organizations are being encouraged to participate in the celebrations by sharing relevant information and/or launching events and activities that are aligned with the theme or the pressing issues about women.
In the workplace, there are many ways to support women. For example, companies can provide ongoing career development programs to women, including the caregivers. Success in the current work environment would definitely entail re-skilling and upskilling. Women, who may already be at a disadvantage because of their responsibilities and limitations, should be given the opportunity to upskill.
Women in the workplace also need access to the benefits they actually need, like adequate and appropriate medical and dental care; discounts and access to childcare facilities, gym membership, enrichment programs, etc.; access to fast Internet at home and free work equipment (or at least a discount for it); and other relevant benefits or privileges that are specially needed during this difficult time.
Company CSR programs may benefit the women in the communities or the organizations that support these women. Working with these groups will help bring awareness to their specific concerns and increase opportunities and support for these women and their families.
Finally, let us give our women workers an environment that allows them to achieve work-life balance. Change organizational structures and processes that create obstacles for the women. All of these don’t need to happen in March alone; do it for the whole year to show continuing support for the women in the work force.
Happy Women’s Month to all women! Let us recognize and celebrate women’s achievements throughout history, and let us support the women in their fight for equality and inclusion.