In recognition of International Women’s Day

Today we recognize International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. For more than a century, generations of people have observed this special holiday, and as the Common Council featuring the most women in Milwaukee’s history, we would like to continue that tradition by recognizing the inspiring things women do every day as supporters and leaders in their own communities.

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Choose to Challenge,” a theme that is all to appropriate given the events of the last year. A world where we challenge systems, ideas, and stereotypes is a world in which we can grow, become more inclusive and have equality for everyone. This is something we strive for daily on the Council.

Many women both past and present have embodied this theme. Jacinda Ardern, elected as one of the world’s youngest female leaders, managed to essentially eliminate the Coronavirus in New Zealand with less than 25 COVID related casualties. Her leadership through this pandemic has been inspiring. Stacey Abrams organized a voter registration movement in Georgia that changed the trajectory of an election and produced record voter turnout. During the last year we lost Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who spent her entire career challenging the ideas of what women, and all people, could accomplish. Locally we remember those like Vel Phillips, who was a trailblazer for many of the women who continue to make a lasting impact today.

During today’s holiday, we would encourage residents to reflect on the impact women have made throughout history, consider supporting a women-owned business or a local charity that supports women, or simply recognize the accomplishments of a woman in your life.

While equality for women has come a long way over the years, there is still much more work to be done. Collectively, we can all help advance equality, and it starts with uplifting women in our community not just on this day, but every day.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.