It’s International Women’s Day this Friday, 8th March, but the festivities continue all week (as they should!). The weeklong-Day is a celebration of all women of all diversities and their achievements; it serves as an important reminder of how far we’ve come (and still have to go) in achieving gender equality.
How it all began
The women’s movement kicked off in 1908 when 15,000 women took to the streets of New York protesting better hours and increased pay and voting rights. March 8th was formally proclaimed International Women’s Day in 1913 and we’re still celebrating it today, because the conversation about equality and equal pay continues.
While we are certainly seeing more women in boardrooms and courtrooms and increased legal rights – there’s still a way to go for equal pay for equal work, and globally, issues remain for women’s health, education, rights, and unfortunately, violence against them.
IWD themes
Although there is no one global organisation that maintains responsibility for International Women’s Day, each year, you’ll find some higher profile ones, like UN Women, or the International Women’s Development Agency, will declare an annual IWD theme that supports their broader cause.
So, depending which event you attend, you might find a different theme as the focus of the celebrations.
Where to celebrate
International Women’s Day is one of the most popular dates in the work calendar, with many employers, causes, and organisations hosting their own events to celebrate women’s achievements and push the gender parity agenda.
We did some digging and unearthed our top #4 IWD events for south-east Queensland residents.
The IWD Fun Run!
Pull up those socks and lace up those trainers, the IWD fun run through Brisbane South Bank and Botanical Gardens gains popularity every year. Although the 2019 event is sold out – you are still able to donate to the cause (Mater Chicks in Pink).
The Institute of Managers and Leaders International Women’s Day Great Debate
By far, the Great Debate is the most high profile event in the IWD calendar. Held over a long lunch – it’s an entertaining and inspiring few hours out of the office. The 2019 debate topic is “Her aspiration needs his cooperation.” Tickets are still available for Brisbane and the Sunny Coast (unfortunately, Toowoomba has sold out).
CommBank’s Women in Focus
Never one to shy away from a good pro-women event, Women in Focus run IWD events Australia-wide. Check out their full list of events here.
Business Chicks IWD Breakfast
Head on down to the new Howard Smith Wharves at the base of Brisbane’s Story Bridge for breakfast, networking and inspiration with their panel of powerful speakers who’ll share their personal story in driving change.
Check with your local council for more events
There are far too many events and celebrations to mention! So, we suggest jumping online and checking out what’s happening in your local area. Queensland Government’s Women’s Week events page is another great source to check out.