Women’s History Month, and everything it stands for, is vital to the present day. We are reminded of how women throughout time are mistreated and overlooked in multiples spaces of our society. From research labs to homes to offices to media to even the highest office and more, women are owed equal treatment, credit and appreciation.
We call for everyone to not only be educated about women throughout history but to show appreciation and solidarity with women. If you were unable to take part in A Day Without A Woman, there are still plenty of other ways to show solidarity and appreciation to women throughout the month. Here are a few ways to celebrate Women’s History Month:
Shop Less
Women are a major economic force. They make up 70%-80% of consumer purchasing and have a major influence on a household’s spending. By avoiding shopping for the day, it demonstrates the huge part women play in the economic growth of our world. The only exceptions to this strike are small businesses owned by women and minorities. So take a pass on some retail therapy this month, and you’ll exhibit just how pivotal women are to our markets.
Wear Red!
Although this was suggested for A Day Without A Woman, wearing the color more often throughout the month shows solidarity to the month’s significance. The organizers behind the monumental Women’s March on Washington called for supporters and participants to wear red because it’s symbolic of “revolutionary love and sacrifice.” It also signifies energy, will and the labor movement.
Donate, Donate, Donate
There are numerous organizations around the world, from Planned Parenthood to the Malala Fund to Tostan and more, that are working everyday to better support women in healthcare, education and basic rights. Especially with Trump’s reinstatement of the U.S. “Global Gag Rule,” the federal funding for Planned Parenthood hanging in the balance, and the controversial travel ban affecting families and their livelihoods, these organizations affected by federal powers need all the financial support they can get. Help them continue doing good work for the marginalized.
Bring Awareness Online and Offline
Social media throughout the month will be filled with all sorts of campaigns in support of Women’s History Month, International Women’s Day and A Day Without A Woman. Although we highly encourage you to go beyond online activism, you are nevertheless doing your part by sharing and writing supportive social media posts. Besides bringing more awareness online, you can also contact your local representatives. They are elected to represent the concerns of their constituents, so they need to know what matters to you.
Give a Gift
In your most personal spaces, take the time to show your appreciation to the women around you. Tell them how much they mean to you and empower them. If we want to see greater gender equality, it starts with recognizing the work and presence of the women most immediately around us. Simple gestures are probably best: give flowers, write a card, make a homemade product, etc.