Every women, every where, all the time

Ioana Navarrete

On March 8th, we celebrate International Women's Day. As a woman, I ask, what does all of this mean? Does it mean respect for all women regardless of where they are from? Does it imply consideration for every woman regardless of her age, ethnicity, or education?

How about respect for all women not withstanding their religion or way of thinking?

Does it include respect for all women including the sick and the disabled?

Should we recognize the struggles of all women no matter their economic status — rich, middle class, poor, indigent or homeless? Even the women who are incarcerated?

How about acknowledgment of women's contribution taking in account each and every job they perform. 

I say a resounding yes to all the above! 

We know that festivities will be arranged. Activists will take to the streets. Speeches will be made. Groups of women will congratulate each other, show their support for each other. Our friends will send messages, videos, songs and poems. They will partake in the celebrations. Governments, international organizations, and civil society will make sure we circle the date in our calendars and participate.

The real question would be, could we do more? We could commit to enrich our point of view with those of women around the globe. Empathize with their life experiences. 

Even better, we should reach out to the women around us. Those who are part of our daily lives but are strangers, really. We could learn about them and their own lives. We may be able to gain some perspective and give some back too. 

Girls are women too. They are the seeds that we must nurture and protect. Therefore, we should increase our awareness of the girls around us. We must safeguard their wellbeing. We must ensure they are getting an education and are not working instead. We are responsible for them, for their safety. Our alertness might prevent their abuse. Our involvement may bring out more joy.

Let us think about their day (women and girls). Even if it´s just today, let us try and improve it. We could lend a hand while they work. Lend an ear at home, be useful. We could mentor the young. We could share a laugh together, no matter how brief.

Women are strong. There is no need for assistance. We can do it on our own. Nevertheless, collaboration will always be appreciated. Even if this is just a symbolic date, it might help to remind us that all women deserve to be seen, to be acknowledged and respected, to be recognized for what they bring to our lives, to yours and mine.

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Edición: Laura Espejo