A little history:
On February 28th, 1909, 15,000 women marched through New York City, demanding shorter hours and better pay. In 1975, The United Nations General Assembly began to celebrate International Women’s Day. It wasn’t until 2014 that it was celebrated as an official holiday in almost 100 countries worldwide.
In a world where sometimes I feel like we’re going backwards on women’s rights and equality – now more than ever, we need to support our fellow woman. We’re strong, capable, and intelligent but everyone could use someone in their corner. Here are some tips on how you can support women.
Check-in:
Everyone has their own struggles – be there. Check-in. See how they’re doing. Invite for coffee. Ask how SHE is doing. A simple gesture like a call or text checking in can make a world of difference.
Be their cheerleader:
Know a friend who is running their own business, following their passion, or aspiring to? There are so many ways to support them: Go to them for Christmas gifts, refer friends and family to their store or services. Engage in their social media accounts! Seems simple enough, but the more exposure they receive, the better. Below are some of my favorite women-owned businesses you should check out!
Fit Flavors
“What you put in your body is the most important piece to achieving your goals. That’s why trainer, nutrition coach, and chef Jillian Tedesco started Fit-Flavors – to help others succeed. See how we’re providing fresh prepared meals for health-conscious, busy people.”
A Perfect Fit
“We are a team of passionate personal chefs and licensed nutritionists dedicated to bringing the art of gourmet cooking and optimal nutrition into your home.”
FR & Co
Women’s Apparel and Gift Boutique located on Main Street St. Charles
The Eleanor
“Specialty baby boutique bringing niche and quality products to moms & babies in STL”
Small Fry Clothing Company
“Premium bamboo clothing company for all children, including an adaptive line for our medical families!”
STL Glam 314
Hair and makeup services – they live to make you feel glamorous!
Sarah Kelly Creative
Visual storyteller & creative powerhouse
Donate to the cause:
Donate to a women’s organization in your area. There are wonderful organizations here in St. Louis that are doing their part in helping women live up to their potential and celebrating them for their achievements. Can’t donate? See if you can volunteer!
Women’s Foundation of Greater St. Louis
“a change-agent for the St. Louis region, committed to advancing the economic success of women in the area through workplace change, public policy change, and individual support.”
Rung for Women
“We designed a career accelerator program to guide motivated women through a process to start working in exciting careers and get paid what you’re worth.”
Women of Achievement
Honoring the volunteer efforts of women
Women in Charge
“Women In Charge is an adult education program that provides high school classes for women looking to earn their high school equivalency (HiSET), formerly known as GED.”
Share words of appreciation:
Give your mom, sister, or friend a call. Give a shoutout to a local business online. Let them know they are loved, supported, and making a difference. That you are proud of them.
Most importantly – take the time to celebrate YOURSELF. Celebrate your achievements and be sure to take time for yourself.
YOU MATTER.
YOU ARE LOVED.
YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
