What is International Women’s Day?
International Women's Day (8 March) is a global observance celebrating the achievements of women past, present and future. It is a time to recognise heritages, acknowledge injustices and reaffirm our commitment to gender equality. In some places such as China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria, International Women's Day is a national holiday. International Women’s Day provides the time where we can pay heightened attention to the lived experiences of women. The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is #BreakTheBias:
“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 #BreakTheBias.” (International Women’s Day Website, 2022)
Why is it important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
Gender should not be a barrier for anyone to achieve their dreams, to have their voice listened to in a room, to be respected or to be valued. Sexism, sexual harassment, and sexual violence continue to be present on university campuses globally. We are part of an organisation championing educational excellence, but if students don’t feel safe that hampers any contribution they have to give. This year, the SU has taken special measures to educate about and tackle drink spiking, an act overwhelmingly targeted towards women. It is our duty to promote the interests and welfare of all students, supporting them and allowing them to feel at home in our community. As we empower all women to be their best selves, we allow a better campus for us all.
History of International Women’s Day
A first iteration of International Women's Day was marked across Europe in 1911; it also has deep roots in former USSR and communist countries before being adopted by the UN in 1975. More recently, in this country, international women’s day has been a time to remember the suffragettes who campaigned for women's right to vote, in many cases sacrificing their own freedom in the process. The word 'Suffragette' is derived from the word 'suffrage', meaning the right to vote. This movement has of course been played out many times since and continues to be repeated as the fight for gender equality continues, more recently with the inclusion of Trans rights.
Events
As part of our celebrations the SU is organising:
- Tuesday 8 March 12:45 - 14:45, The Edge. Women in Science will be making Origami in the Edge.
- Tuesday 8 March 17:30 - 19:00, The Edge. An informal panel event discussing female career paths to success. Hear discussions from inspiring female leaders from inside and outside the university. Get a chance to contribute to the discussion and hear how we are breaking the bias at Bath. Sign up for free tickets here.
- Tuesday 8 March. The Association Football & Futsal is hosting an International Women's Day Football Tournament. Open to any female and non-binary students and welcoming people of all abilities - whether you've played in teams before or never kicked a football! Tuesday 8 March
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Tuesday 08 March 12:45pm - 2:45pm
International Women's Day Origami. Events Space @ The Edge. Come along at any time to make some origami flowers with us. All materials will be provided.