As a woman, this month served as a reminder of the achievement women has made to be where we are now. I stand on the shoulders of all the women who came before me and feel honored of the work they’ve done.
It’s important to celebrate the accomplishments of women in all areas. Throughout history, women have contributed hugely to multiple fields, from science and government to fashion and religion. I recognize these contributions and use them as inspiration for my work.
A Time to Reflect
I reflected and thought about how I can continue to create a more equitable society.
First, we must keep working together to remove structural barriers that prevents women from fully achieving their potential. Many issues still need to be address, from bridging the gender wage gap to eliminating unconscious bias in the workplace and ensuring equitable access to affordable housing.
Second, we have to do it collectively. We can only move forward and create a just and equitable future for everyone if we are united. Let’s take the remainder of the year to reflect on our progress and think about what still needs to be done.
Cheers to Women
Third, I want to honor a few women who’ve impacted my worldview. First, I want to recognize women in the bible who helped shape history, such as Deborah, Esther, Marie, and Ruth. These women used courage, strength, and faith to overcome incredible odds.
I recognize my mom, a strong black woman, who birthed six children and had two stillbirths. Who courageously immigrated to a new country and worked to provide a better opportunity for her children. She may not be considered a change agent in this movement. However, she is mine, and because of her, I am.
Moreover, my teachers and mentors, who predominantly have been women. The ones who’ve told me I can do anything. The mentors who sat me down and had hard conversations of the injustice I would face as a woman and as a black woman in living in America. The ones who’ve called me “lady extraordinary” and a “leader.” I thank you and acknowledge your bravery and mentorship.
Additionally, I want to acknowledge the women who fought and continue to fight for our freedom and equality. Women like Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Ida B. Wells, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Michelle Obama, Stacy Abrams, etc., are all examples of how one person can make a difference. The current women in politics, finance, arts, and religion are paving the way for future generations.
These powerful women remind us that despite adversity, we can still accomplish amazing things if we believe in ourselves and persevere. Thus, I conclude this blog post with this verse.
“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.”
Psalm 46 v. 5