International Women’s Day (IWD) is on Wednesday 8 March 2023. Celebrated every year, it’s a global recognition of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
The first official International Women’s Day was in 1975, when it was recognised by the United Nations. Each year it honours women of the past, present, and future who have fought for change in gender equality and in funding female-focused charities.
This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity. The IWD website reads ‘Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all embrace equity.’
Showing our support
Colleagues at our Luton, London, Manchester, and Gateshead offices will be coming together on the day to celebrate the occasion. Office event packs will be used to help raise awareness and additional resource tools will be provided to help signpost useful information. Keep an eye on our socials for photos from the day.
Appeal campaign
In partnership with our client ASOS, we are running an appeals campaign supporting local charity women@thewell (WATW). Located in Kings Cross, WATW are a women-only service dedicated to supporting women whose lives are affected by, or at risk of being affected by prostitution. Most women who use the services have complex needs including problematic drug and alcohol abuse, mental health difficulties, rough sleeping, and trafficking. You can find out more about WATW here.
We are asking for donations of clothing in good condition like leggings, jeans, t shirts, hoodies socks and trainers. Anything comfortable and practical as well as feminine hygiene products for the women that use their services.
Last year, Churchill signed up to the ‘Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant’ (EDAC). Signing the pledge is just one of the ways we support and give back to the communities we work with. You can find out more about it here.
Female Inspirations
To help celebrate IWD, we asked some of our Churchill colleagues to share their female inspirations and why.
“Maria Curie – She was a pioneering, two-time noble prize-winning scientist, whose research into radioactivity saved countless lives. She was unable to attend university in Poland, because she was a woman, so decided to up sticks and move to Paris, just to continue her education.” (Vicky Ras)
“Viola Davis – African American Actress who encourages me to believe in my dreams. She makes me understand what determination is and how to prioritise what matters most. It doesn’t matter where you come from, with hard work and determination you can reach your goal.” (Winnie Larbi)
“Bethany Hamilton- American surfer who had her arm bitten of by a Shark. She then had to relearn how to Surf with one arm. She has become a pro surfer. She has also started her own charity to help others who have experienced similar situations and help them get their lives back together. She has proven you can accomplish and overcome anything life throws at you.” (Rachel Ward)
“Harriet Tubman- African American abolitionist and social activist. Born into slavery, Harriet escaped and subsequently made some 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 slaves, including family and friends, using the network of antislavery activists and safe houses known as the underground Railroad. Harriet Tubman is an inspiration. She showed strength, perseverance, and fearlessness. She had the ability to speak life into others.” (Paige McLeod)
At Churchill, we are dedicated to embracing equality not just on this day, but every day. We all play a part and each of us can actively support and embrace equity within our own sphere of influence.