On March 8 we celebrated International Womens Day - a day when women are recognised for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political.

The UN Women Australian theme for #IWD2022 was Changing Climates: Equality today for a sustainable tomorrow. The UN theme recognised and celebrated the contribution of women and girls around the world, working to change the climate of gender equality and build a sustainable future. 

The theme for Internationalwomensday.com was #BreakTheBias, highlighting that whether deliberate or unconscious, bias makes it difficult for women to move ahead. We know that simply recognising that bias exists is not enough, action is needed to level the playing field.

These themes emphasise the important work we all must do in finding the opportunities, and exposing the constraints, that empower women and girls to have a voice and be equal players in decision-making at all levels. That is certainly what we are working towards at NCJWA Vic. Our suite of programs and advocacy harness the collective power of women in and around our community to deliver offerings that empower and connect women and girls across the lifecycle. 

In particular our #MakeSpaceForHer campaign continues advocating for more women at the decision making table and appearing at public events across the community. There is great potential all around us. We need to work together to encourage and elevate the many amazing women throughout our community who have skill, talent and perspectives which would enrich our Jewish community. 

We take inspiration from this years #BreakTheBias commentary and hope you will join us in our continued pursuit for a more gender equal world:

Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination.
A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.

Has your organisation or community group taken the NCJWA Vic Gender Equality Pledge yet? Learn More about the Pledge.