How can you change the narrative from your daughter being ‘a bossy girl’ to a ‘leader in the making?’ Questions to get conversations started for International Women’s Day

Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Each year, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made towards gender equality and highlights the work that still needs to be done.

In 2024, the campaign theme Inspire Inclusion emphasises the importance of diversity and empowerment in all aspects of society.

Achieving gender equality is a complex issue that requires changes at multiple levels, including societal, cultural, political, and economic.

Here are some areas that need to change to promote gender equality for women that you can ‘talk & teach’ your kids to ponder 🤔 

Education:

Providing equal opportunities for girls and boys to access education and promoting education about gender equality in schools.

Employment:

Encouraging equal pay for equal work and promoting women’s leadership in the workplace.

Legal and policy frameworks:

Enforcing laws and policies that protect women from discrimination and violence and promote gender equality.

Cultural norms and values:

Challenging harmful gender stereotypes and promoting positive attitudes towards women and girls.

Media representation:

Promoting positive representation of women and girls in media and popular culture.

Health and wellbeing:

Addressing gender-based violence and ensuring access to reproductive healthcare.

Political participation:

Promoting women’s participation in decision-making processes and political representation.

Achieving gender equality requires a concerted effort from individuals, communities, governments, and organisations to challenge gender stereotypes and promote equal opportunities for all genders constantly – it’s not just a token day but a concerted effort.

Raising awareness can start in your home through conversations, being a role model & reading books that represent girls in different situations, jobs & circumstances.

Here are some great books for kids of all ages that you could read together or talk to older kids about – as a Mum of both a son & a daughter it’s about teaching boys and empowering girls too isn’t it?

As a parent how can you model gender equality in the way to speak & act around female opportunities & leadership – as kids are watching, listening & learning from you all the time?

How can you change the narrative from your daughter being ‘a bossy girl’ to a ‘leader in the making?’

Here are some questions to start conversations around gender equality at home, in the office or at school.

🎈What does gender equality mean to you?

🎈In your opinion, do you think gender inequality still exists in our society?

🎈How do you think we can promote gender equality in the workplace?

🎈Have you ever witnessed or experienced gender discrimination? Can you tell me about it?

🎈How do you think gender stereotypes affect our society and culture?

🎈What can we do to encourage young people to embrace gender equality?

🎈How do you think media and popular culture influence our perception of gender roles and expectations?

🎈What are some ways that we can support and empower women and girls in our community?

🎈How can we raise awareness and advocate for gender equality on a global scale?

🎈What do you think are the most pressing gender equality issues facing our society today?

Are you ready to play your part?