Wondering how to show your support for women this International Women’s Day? Here’s a snapshot of some international social media campaigns that have had a big impact, that could inspire a start-up project at your university, school or community.
‘Women Speak Out’
Run by the organisation Agape Student Life, ‘Women Speak Out’ began in Rome a few years ago on a university campus. This has now spread to several universities around Europe, and is open to everyone whose identity includes woman. The question we pose to them is – ‘What is your message to other women on International Women’s Day?’ We then help them to write their unique message on their body, have a professional photographer take their photo and display it in an exhibition celebrating womanhood in all its forms. Every year sees an increase in the number of women wanting to get involved; the atmosphere in the room is dizzying – strangers and friends are telling each other their stories, their struggles and their triumphs as we share our experiences as one.
#Сега кажувам
This form of spreading awareness is more and more present in different parts of the world. In Macedonia, the hashtag #Сега кажувам or #I’m saying now, is a social media movement that encourages women to talk freely and without judgement about sexual harassment and share their stories, so women and men can be more respectful and to watch out and report such events. It has gotten more viral with time and it resulted in people being aware and speaking their minds which is the ultimate goal of the trend.
#STOP
A campaign called #STOP was made to spread awareness about the violence against women because if we’re talking about violence, it is one of the most pervasive violations of human rights in the world, one of the least prosecuted crimes, and one the greatest threats to lasting peace and development. In this campaign, we decided to make a photo project where we explained the heroic acts of women and why they should be treated equally.
It’s important to remember that as we’re celebrating women this Thursday, we mustn’t forget the other forms of discrimination that often intersect with sexism such as homophobia, racism and ableism. International Women’s Day is all about celebrating equality, so however you choose to, remember to GET LOUD, because it is when we are united that we can make the biggest impact.
