The United States annual Women’s Equality Day is commemorated on August 26, 2024. It is a significant occasion that celebrates the hard-fought achievements of women in their journey towards equality. It’s a day where we can recognize and honor the significant progress that has been made. But it’s also important to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done.
So, how should we celebrate this day to make it meaningful?
Without a doubt, engaging in conversations about women’s rights, empowerment, and equality is a good way to start. But we can take this a step further in 2024. We have the opportunity to celebrate Women’s Equality Day in an especially meaningful way by embracing internal communication strategies that inspire, educate, and empower.
Fittingly, the theme of Women’s Equality Day 2023 is #EmbraceEquity. So, why not bring diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) communications into the conversation too?
Why Women’s Equality Day Matters
Women’s Equality Day has been celebrated on August 26th every year since 1973. It commemorates the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which, in 1920, gave women in America the right to vote.
Many of the stories about American suffragettes are legendary. Many of them were arrested and force-fed in prison in 1917 after peacefully picketing the White House for the right to vote. It wasn’t a new story. Women had been protesting since 1848 for the right to be heard.
But Women’s Equality Day 2023, and “equality days” that went before, aren’t days that are just about voting rights. They are a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality in all aspects of life. Additionally, the celebratory day is also a commemoration of some of the achievements women have achieved en masse, including:
- Growing political participation, with an ever increasing number of women taking their place in public office. A good example is Kamala Harris who, in 2020 became the first female vice-president and highest-ranking female official in U.S. history.
- Increased education gives women opportunities to compete, very often successfully, with men.
- Opportunities to participate in the workplace have increased in ways many women never dreamed possible. According to U.S. Department of Labor statistics, from 1920, when women accounted for a paltry 20% of the labor force, by 2021, it had risen to nearly half (47%).
In 2023, half a century after Equality Day was legally immortalized, it’s crucial to highlight the continued need for progress and the role each individual plays in promoting equality. Much has been achieved, but there are still gender pay gaps, gender gaps in education, and far more men vs women in leadership roles. One way to overcome these inconsistencies is to raise understanding and widespread awareness throughout the nation.
Harnessing the Power of Internal Communication
Internal communication is a potent tool that can be used effectively to foster awareness, understanding, and support for Women’s Equality Day 2023. Here are some effective ways to celebrate the day through internal communication:
1. Women’s Equality Day Quotes
Quotes have a remarkable ability to inspire and capture the essence of important concepts. An excellent way to do this is to incorporate impactful Women’s Equality Day quotes into your internal communications. For instance, you could share quotes from historical figures, contemporary leaders, or even your own colleagues reflecting on what equality means to them.
Here are a few examples:
“The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.” – Gloria Steinem, American journalist and social-political activist
“I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” – Audre Lorde, American writer, professor, philosopher, and radical feminist
“Women are the real architects of society.” – Cher, American singer, actress, and TV personality
“Women, like men, should try to do the impossible. And when they fail, their failure should be a challenge to others.” – Amelia Earhart, American aviation pioneer and writer
2. Educational Workshops and Webinars
Organize virtual workshops or webinars that delve into the history of Women’s Equality Day and the broader feminist movement. Then share these. Address the challenges women continue to face and discuss actionable steps to promote gender equality in the workplace and beyond. Invite experts to share insights and facilitate discussions with them.
3. Highlight Employee Stories
Give voice to the experiences and achievements of women within your organization. Share stories of women who have broken barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and made significant contributions to your workplace. This not only celebrates their accomplishments but also serves as inspiration for others.
Just be aware that you are going to have to ask employees to share their experiences. So, communicate with employees in your workplace to let them know you want to know from them how to celebrate Women’s Equality Day in the best way possible.
4. Women’s Equality Day Social Media Posts
Utilize your company’s internal social media platforms to share informative and engaging Women’s Equality Day posts. You can share historical facts, infographics showcasing progress, and anecdotes that emphasize the importance of equality. Encourage employees to join the conversation and share their thoughts.
5. Interactive Quizzes and Polls
Create fun and interactive quizzes, polls, or employee engagement events centered around women’s achievements and milestones. This encourages employees to learn while actively participating in the celebration. Questions could range from historical trivia to modern-day challenges women still face.
The bottom line here is that you might learn a lot too! You could even offer a prize for how to celebrate Women’s Equality Day and then use the advice to up your game in 2024.
6. Virtual Film Screenings and Book Clubs
Host virtual screenings of documentaries or films that highlight women’s struggles and achievements. Alternatively, initiate a book club focusing on literature authored by women or tackling themes of gender equality. You could even raise money for a worthwhile charity by selling books at your own Women’s Equality Day 2023 function!
Why Not Celebrate Women’s Equality Day Every Day?
As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day 2023, remember that promoting gender equality is not limited to a single day – it’s an ongoing effort that requires continuous commitment.
Through thoughtful internal communication strategies, we can make strides toward a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Strategies we can embrace include sharing Women’s Equality Day quotes, hosting educational events, amplifying employee stories, and leveraging social media posts. In this way, we can inspire change and foster a culture of equality that extends far beyond this day of celebration.
What’s Next?
Our internal communication software Cerkl Broadcast has helped hundreds of companies personally engage their employees. Access a free personalized, downloadable audit to share within your organization. Review the types of content your team creates and distributes across your channels and find the best way to celebrate Women’s Equality Day in 2023.
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FAQ
Women’s Equality Day has been celebrated on August 26th every year since 1973. It commemorates the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which, in 1920, gave women in America the right to vote.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2023 is #EmbraceEquity. The goal of the campaign is to initiate global discussions about the insufficiency of mere equal opportunities. Given that individuals have varying starting points, genuine inclusivity and a sense of belonging necessitate fair and impartial actions.
Women’s Equality Day originated in the United States. It was first celebrated on August 26, 1971. This date was chosen to commemorate the certification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920, which granted women the right to vote.
Gender equality is important in 2023 and beyond because it ensures fairness, justice, and the full realization of human potential by breaking down barriers that limit opportunities and rights based on gender.
