International Women's Day Break The Bias
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day and Month is Break The Bias. Aside from the great alliteration and the catchiness of the phrase, what does that really mean? Well, it’s about a gender equal world, free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. One that is diverse, equitable and inclusive and where difference is valued and celebrated. But that’s not something that women alone can do. It has to be something that we as a society do together. Everyone has a role to play.
I walk this earth as a Black woman - one who has dealt with both racism and sexism throughout her entire life. There were times I didn’t even recognize it was happening to me. Call it naivety, but I always want to think the best of people. Why would someone dislike me because of my skin colour? Why would someone think less of me because of gender? Rationally, it doesn’t make sense. However, we know this thinking is still present in 2022. It makes me sad. That despite the great efforts of legendary women in history as well as contemporary she-roes, this type of thinking still remains. These battles still need to be fought. Stereotypes still need to be questioned. Bias has to be pointed out. Why are we still struggling with this in 2022? Why?
We are all equal. We are all humans. We need to move forward and evolve. It cannot continue this way. It should not. I challenge anyone who is taking the time to read this blog (and I appreciate that you do), to check your own personal bias. Let’s be honest - we all have them, including me. This month is a challenge to everyone to assess themselves, their thoughts, their actions and their behaviour. Together we can forge women's equality.
Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.