Why Every Day Should Be International Women's Day: A HerStory Lesson for Us All

Every year, we earmark a day to celebrate the indomitable spirit of women, but on this episode of the 2% Solution Podcast, we do more than mark a calendar date. We trace the footsteps of valiant women whose marches and protests carved the path for the rights we cherish today.

Join me, Dai Manuel, for a heartfelt journey through the history of International Women’s Day, from its labor movement origins to the continued quest for equality.

We'll explore the impact of the brave souls who have contributed to the liberties we sometimes take for granted — and the pressing reality that our journey toward equal rights for all genders still stretches far ahead of us.

Celebrations are often about looking outward, but today, I turn inward to share the influence of the phenomenal women in my life: my daughter Chardonae, Brie, my wife Christie, and my exceptional mother.

Their stories illuminate the episode as they personify the tenacity, wisdom, and resilience we celebrate on International Women's Day and beyond.

So, prepare to be moved as we commit to weaving the essence of this momentous day into the fabric of our everyday lives, ensuring our actions consistently honor and propel us toward a world where every woman's potential is recognized and revered.

Additional IWD Resources

• International Women's Day: The official website provides information on the day's history, events, and ways to get involved.
• United Nations Women: UN Women offers extensive resources on their efforts to promote gender equality and empower women around the world, including information on International Women's Day.
• Women's March Global: An organization that extends the spirit of International Women's Day through global activism, focusing on women's rights and equality.
• Global Fund for Women: This organization advocates for women's human rights by gathering resources and funding for women-led movements worldwide.

Transcript

Dai Manuel: 0:06

Hey there, 2% Collective. Welcome to a special episode of the 2% Solution Podcast. I'm your host, diamond Well, and today we're celebrating a day that's not just marked on calendars but is a big deal in history too. International Women's Day, it's more than just a date. It's a global movement for equality, a tribute to the amazing things women have done and a reminder that we still have a ways to go to ensure women, men and all genders are treated the same. Let's take a quick trip back in time.

Dai Manuel: 0:38

International Women's Day started in the early 1900s during the labor movements in North America and Europe. The first National Women's Day was in the United States on February 28, 1909, thanks to the Socialist Party of America. Clara Zetkin, a German Marxist, came up with the idea of an International Women's Day in 1910 at an international socialist women's conference in Copenhagen. The idea was to push for equal rights, including the right to vote for women. The idea was a hit. Over 100 women from 17 countries were totally on board and International Women's Day was born. March 8 became the official date in 1917 after women in Russia protested for bread and peace during World War I. Their protests sparked a revolution and Russian women got the right to vote.

Dai Manuel: 1:31

International Women's Day is a big deal because it started as a protest for better working conditions, the right to vote and, of course, equality. We still fight for these things in many parts of the world today. It's a day to remember the brave women who paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today, and it reminds us that we still have work to do to achieve true gender equality. These reports show that when women are treated equally, it's not just good for them, it's good for everyone. It makes economies stronger, communities more sustainable and societies more inclusive. But the Global Gender Gap report says it might take another 100 years to close the gap between men and women. At the rate we're going, it's way too long. So International Women's Day is about celebrating women's achievements, fighting for the rights and pushing for the end of gender inequality, but honoring the women who have fought for the rights and privileges we often take for granted.

Dai Manuel: 2:31

But let's get personal. I want to take a moment to honor the extraordinary women in my life. To my daughter, chardonnay Embry, my wife Christy and, of course, my mom. This segment is for you, chardonnay Embry. You're my inspiration. Watching you grow, embrace your individuality and step confidently into your journeys fills me with pride. You embody the hope and promise of a future where women can achieve their dreams without barriers. Your strength, intelligence and compassion remind me daily of the importance of advocating for a world that recognizes and celebrates your potential. Christy, you're my partner in life's dance. You're strong, graceful and resilient. Your unwavering support and love enrich my life and empower me to be the best version of myself. Your personal and professional achievements are a testament to the incredible woman you are. I'm so grateful for your partnership, laughter and, of all things, your wisdom. And to my mom, the first woman in my life. You laid the foundation for everything I am today. Your sacrifices, your love, your lessons have guided me through every step of my journey. You taught me the value of respect, the power of kindness and the importance of integrity. Your strength in the face of adversity has been my guiding light and I owe you an immeasurable debt of gratitude. To these remarkable women and all the women listening, thank you. Your influence shapes the world and we must ensure it's a world worthy of you.

Dai Manuel: 4:09

Let's take the spirit of International Women's Day to celebrate, advocate and elevate women daily. H-e-v-u listening has women in your life who've been pillars, guiding stars and sources of endless love and wisdom. International Women's Day is a moment to honor them, but let's not confine our gratitude and recognition to a single day. Let's weave appreciation and advocacy into the fabric of our daily lives. This is Diamond Well, reminding you that change starts with the small steps we take every day. Honoring the spirit of International Women's Day means committing to actions that move us toward a world of equality, respect and recognition for all women, and I'm going to go as far as say all human beings. Thanks for joining me today for this special celebration. Until next time, let's keep pushing for that 2% solution, advocating for justice and cherishing the externing women in our lives. And you know what? Let's make every day a day for women. Until next time, keep smiling, keep thriving.