International Women's Day. What do we really celebrate?

"The most beautiful", "The most delicate" ...

March 8 is recognized as the International Women's Day, a very important date that in many times we're not aware of its real meaning. It is essential to emphasize that it is not a date in which the woman is only thanked for her presence, for her appearance, it is not the "day of the most beautiful" nor is any superficial event celebrated. Since the role of women is much more than that and transcends beyond what is repeated day by day in society.

The International Women's Day is celebrated as a reminder of the importance of gender equality, it seems incredible that in the XXI century there are inequalities and even crimes against them for the simple fact of being a woman. This is because in many cultures the role of man is seen as the dominant, the "strong sex", opening the way to endless injustices such as inequality of wages, employment and opportunities.

(source: Google images)

The male chauvinism in Latin America is still very present, in areas such as politics and science where there is not deserved recognition to all women who struggle every day to earn a place in society and even in many homes where abuse and oppression are daily.

What are the factors that allow this kind of injustices to continue to be present today? The lack of education and information is one of the most important, since in neither institutions nor at home is it taught about the importance of feminism and gender equality. We must take more awareness of feminism and its meaning and that more and more people join this movement that seeks political, economic and social equality of genders.

Before congratulating a woman on her day, it is important to think that today there are women forced to perform tasks that do not correspond to them or that they simply do not like, that many women are murdered daily, that there are still women who receive lower salaries and that many of them are victims of sexual abuse and street harassment. So the best way to congratulate a woman in her day is by offering them all the support and demonstrating that you are looking for a better and safer future for them.

As a society, we must stay together and spread the word about the true meaning of women's day. If you are a woman, do not be afraid to recognize your rights and fight for them. If you are a man, do not be afraid to be a feminist, show support to build a society that we all deserve.
Happy International Women's Day and month!