Celebrating Women’s Contributions and the Journey Toward Equality

By Anna Ram~ Psychologist & Coach.

Proverbs 31:25-26: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”

Every March 8, is International Women’s Day. Today is about you, and we celebrate you, and all the incredible women around the world!  

In a world that often feels uncertain, women continue to play essential roles, balancing family, work, personal goals,  and societal challenges with grace, courage, and resilience.

Significant progress has been made through women’s contributions, benefiting all, including conservative women. Key achievements include:

1. Advocacy for Legal Rights: Women have fought for the right to vote, access to education and healthcare, and protection against gender-based violence.
2. Increased Educational Opportunities: Greater access to higher education allows women to pursue careers and personal goals, a right that should be protected globally.
3. Workplace Rights and Protections: Legislation for equal pay, maternity leave, and protections against harassment has been crucial in addressing injustices faced by women.

Despite these gains, traditional gender roles and stereotypes persist, limiting opportunities and reinforcing inequality. Phrases like “A woman’s place is in the home”, “Women pregnant, barefoot and in the kitchen,” “ Childless cat ladies” are wrong and perpetuate the notion that a woman’s value is tied solely to her domestic role, or giving birth to children, or stigmatizing women for not wanting or cannot have children.

The Struggle

The struggle for gender equality has deep historical roots, influenced by religious, political, and cultural factors. For instance, in Religion, the story of Eve in the Garden of Eden has often been misinterpreted, contributing to negative perceptions of women. Understanding this context is vital for recognizing a woman’s rightful place.

How Jesus Approached Women?

Jesus’ approach to women was revolutionary, promoting dignity and respect. No wonder why women who walk with him had a deep connection with him and God. Here are some examples:

Jesus Engaged With Women Publicly: his conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26.)

Jesus Acknowledged Their Faith: He commended the faith of the Canaanite woman (Matthew 15:21-28) and the widow who gave her last two coins at the temple (Mark 12:41-44).

Jesus Included Them in His Ministry:  Maria and Martha, Maria Magdalene, and many others. They were mentioned as present during key events, including his crucifixion and resurrection.

Jesus Challenged Social Norms: He defended a woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11, emphasizing mercy over condemnation.

His teachings highlighted the inherent value of all individuals, including women as seen in Galatians 3:28, which calls for equality among all believers.

As women and catalyst of change, let’s ask ourselves, how I have contributed to improve or hinder women’s rights, opportunities, protections? Please, take a minute to reflect about your participation and contributions in this world.  As we engage, let’s seek to embrace wisdom to build the world we want to live in and will inherit to our children and their generations to come.