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This International Women’s Day, Let’s Celebrate the Women Who Came Before Us

By Gloria Dunn-Violin March 07, 2024 Lifestyle

Someday in the future, our female youth may think of us who are over 60 as ‘the women before us.’ We are the women who inspire their future. We are the women who went through the fires of life, held fast and came out more whole and wholesome.

We opened paths that were blocked and busted down stereotypes that were hopeless, becoming more educated, employable and involved in world decisions.

We supported younger women to become a voice against abusive predators and stand up for their rights. We blazoned the ideals of equality and equity across the world. History was made by us, and we should be proud!

International Women’s Day

We need to acknowledge what we have accomplished as we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024. This annual event commemorates women’s achievements and elevates our quest for equality around the world.

We celebrate national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic and political diversity. We also disabuse ageism. I devoted one of the sections in my book Revivement: Having a Life After Making a Living to celebrating age.

Appreciating Forerunners

Now is also the time to appreciate the women who paved the way for us through the centuries by speaking up, contributing through their work, organizing for change and donating their services, ideas, abilities and so much more.

They brought negligent issues before the world so the collective mind could see the truth and decide to change.

Although the world has been slow to acknowledge their contributions and slower to make changes, women have come to a place in history where there is no turning back. Women are moving forward and we must ensure the survival of our history and blazon a trail for our future.

Time to Salute All Women

Women are responding in greater numbers than ever to the abuse they’ve withstood for centuries. Like Eleanor Roosevelt said, “A woman is like a tea bag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.”

Let’s salute the thousands of women who have overcome being in hot water and participated in some form in empowering others with values, truth and an equitable world. We need to acknowledge these notable women for their courage and influence.

We’re in This Together

Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist said, “This story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist or to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”

Some Things You Can Do

  1. Make your voice heard whenever you see inappropriate behavior toward women or bashing of women’s rights.
  2. Don’t accept less than your worth in a relationship or job.
  3. Model the types of behaviors you want others to demonstrate.
  4. Show your intelligence, perseverance and success.
  5. Encourage younger women to do the same.

We would love to hear your views about the present, past and future of women as we continue to improve our world and our lives.

Also read, CELEBRATING OUR ROLE MODELS ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What are your aspirations for women in the future? What do we need to do to bring equity and equality to women? How will we close the gender gaps more quickly? What else would you like to share? Please join the conversation below.

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3 Comments
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Joan Irvine
Debbie

I have always found that song hopeful and inspiring. It still rings true today.

Shellie

I have long-admired Louise Hay. She started Hay House Publishing when she was 60 years old. Also, she was a pioneer in mind-body wellness, practices I embraced several decades ago. I’ve taught meditation and qigong for 15+ years. At 60, I took up a new career….photography! You’re never too old to start something new.
Looking back at the inspirational women of the past, we may not follow in their exact footsteps, but follow their ideals to create something new.

The Author

Gloria Dunn-Violin is a professional speaker, workshop leader, and author of Revivement: Having a Life After Making a Living. Her 25-year background in organizational behavior and development, constant research and personal experience makes her uniquely qualified to guide retirees on their journey. She also hosted a cable TV talk show and writes for publication. Visit her site at www.havingalifenow.com.

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