Today is International Women's Day!

Inviato il 8 Marzo 2022

Break the bias...

Celebrate

Here in Italy, International Women's Day is widely celebrated. However, I find it interesting that the advancement of women's rights aren't. Guess it is more of a 'we say, but don't really do it' thing. In my experience being a new member of this community, I find it appalling the way that women are viewed and treated. In part, I do love and respect the Italian culture, but on the other hand, I know that I have come here to shake things up. One of those being the advancement of women and their roles in this society. I've already made a splash, but I'm hoping to break some molds and really show what a woman can do when she has no limits. I encourage all of you to embrace the woman you are and stand up for what you believe in- regardless of what society tells you you can do. And, stop comparing yourself to other women. Instead, celebrate them and what makes them special. We are stronger together, in our own unique ways and no one makes a better you, than you.

Take action

Now, more than ever, we need to come together to be inclusive of others and raise the bar when it comes to how things are done. Clearly our systems are outdated and need to not only be revised, but thrown out all together. This is a time to think outside the box. Can you imagine a gender equal world? Can you imagine a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination? And can you imagine a world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive?! I certainly can and am so ready for this world to catch up. This means we all have to do our parts in standing up for what's right. That means challenge gender stereotypes, call out gendered actions or assumptions, forge a gender equal world, celebrate women, while also celebrating men. Part of our issue is that we aren't allowing men to be human and emotional. We both have masculine and feminine within us and they are both meant to be celebrated. We rise by lifting others, not by putting others down. And in a world that's so divided, it's hard. Let's raise awareness for us all to be the best at who we were divinely meant to me. One.

Have hope

According to the World Economic Forum, gender parity will not be attained for almost a century. This makes me sad, as there are other issues such as racial inequality that most of us won't see in our lifetimes either. This blows my mind because I would like to think that we have come a long way, but our world shows us just how much we haven't changed at all. We need mindsets to be open and to shift towards including everyone, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, or race. In my mind we can live in a society where everyone matters and voices are heard and not only respected, but celebrated. But I realize that not everyone sees the world through my lens. The smallest act can move the needle, and together we can all make a difference to advance forward with compassion, inclusivity, empathy, and love.

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