For women, gaining the right to vote was a long and arduous battle that was finally won in August of 1920, when it was decided that no citizen could be denied the right to vote on the basis of sex. This victory is, in part, what National Women’s Equality Day acknowledges.
While the day is a reminder of the challenges women still face, Women’s Equality Day is also about uplifting and empowering women, and marveling at how far women have progressed, defying all odds and oppression. It is an opportunity to express gratitude for the influential women in our lives, to support local businesses run by women, and to celebrate womanhood [nationaltoday.com].
The National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) encourages communities throughout the country to honor local women who bring…priceless gifts to their families, workplaces, and neighborhoods. These are the women who, as counselors and clerics, artists and teachers, doctors, nurses, mothers, and grandmothers listen, ease suffering, restore dignity, and make decisions for our general as well as our personal welfare.
Women have long advocated for compassionate treatments and new directions in public health and in women’s mental and physical health…. The 2022 theme proudly honors those who, in both public and private life, provide healing and promote hope for the betterment of all.
Honoring Women’s Equality Day
Women’s Equality Day is recognized each year on August 26. Here are a few ways you can participate in and acknowledge this meaningful day:
- Learn and Participate
A critical part in taking action against inequality is knowing what it is and understanding its effect on women, our communities, and society at large. Even if you consider yourself an ally, there’s always more to learn around bias against women and how you can fight it. You can start by researching the topic and by asking the women in your life about their personal experiences.
The NWHA offers ideas and resources on activities to celebrate the day and become involved in bringing meaningful change to your community. Consider sharing brochures or hosting events at your local library, schools, and places of worship.
- Commit to Self-Care
Taking on a fight as big as women’s equality can be challenging and put participants at risk for mental health challenges. Additionally, personally experiencing the stress and frustration of inequality can take a physical, mental, and emotional toll on individuals. In fact, sustained and prolonged exposure to traumatic experiences, such as discrimination, can result in toxic stress, which can have lasting negative effects. And unfortunately, women are already more likely to experience mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
So it’s important to commit to caring for yourself (put your oxygen mask on first!) and attend to your own well-being so you have the strength to fight the good fight.
Celebrating Women All Year Long
While this day offers us an opportunity to recognize the fight for gender equality, let’s keep that same spirit throughout the year. Discrimination and inequality are unfortunately still among us, and it takes constant vigilance to make strides toward equality (just ask the suffragettes).
Consider how you might support this fight in your everyday life, from meaningful conversations to education and advocacy. Further, continue to show gratitude for the hardworking women in your life, for the physical and emotional labor they do for others!
And if you feel that inequalities are negatively affecting you, know that you’re not alone. Reach out to one of our compassionate and highly trained counselors who can support you on this journey. You don’t have to go it alone, and a brighter tomorrow is possible.
