Press Release
International Women’s Day (March 8) means different things to different people, but the global focus on equality and celebration is clear.
Soroptimists International of Price supports the work of International Women’s Day, every day throughout the year right here in Carbon County. We envision a world where women and girls everywhere will have the resources and opportunities to reach their full potential and live their dreams. This vision drives our Soroptimist mission – to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. And we work to accomplish this through signature programs such as our Live Your Dream: Education & Training Awards for Women which honor women head of households who have returned to school to create a better future for their family, or the Dream It. Be It. Program which provides career support to teenage girls, through goal setting, access to mentors, and career education. We support local organizations who are helping women and girls in our community – whether it be a safe-haven in the midst of domestic abuse, access to nutritious meals, supporting those struggling with illness, or helping to provide for basic necessities of everyday living.
As we work to fulfill our mission, we also stand alongside organizations the world over working toward equality for all women. Together we acknowledge and celebrate International Women’s Day.
Throughout ancient and modern history, women have collaborated and lead purposeful action to redress inequality in the hope of a better future for their communities, children and themselves. Whether through bold well-documented action or through humble resistance that never made it into the history books, women have united for equality and achievement.
And along the way, one particularly powerful collaboration lead to the formation of a globally united moment for women across countries to come together in hope and action. That moment is International Women’s Day.
Started in the early 1900’s, the almighty and tenacious Suffragettes forged purposeful action for equality. It was the Suffragettes who started International Women’s Day, with the first officially named International Women’s Day event held in 1911. Today, International Woman’s Day belongs to all groups collectively everywhere and is not claimed by any one country, group or organization.
World-renowned feminist, journalist and social and political activist Gloria Steinem expressed it best when she said, “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights”
Now, over a century later International Women’s Day continues to be a powerful platform that unifies tenacity and drives action for gender equality, while also celebrating the social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women.
The ten values that guide International Women’s Day are: Justice, Dignity, Hope, Equality, Collaboration, Tenacity, Appreciation, Respect, Empathy, and Forgiveness.
Ultimately, International Women’s Day is all about unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy and action. Let us continue the work and spirit of the almighty Suffragettes, fighting the good fight. And let us recognize, honor and celebrate the important and impressive achievements of women both globally and locally.