International Women’s Day / Rose Day 2023

DigitALL:

Innovation and technology for gender equality

&

#EmbraceEquity

Celebrate Women

International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women’s rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. Wikipedia

This year the campaign is #EmbraceEqutiy

Zonta Rose Day, 8 March, is celebrated along with International Women’s Day as a time to reflect and give tribute to the individuals who have empowered you or the women in your community. Zonta’s annual Rose Day campaign will run the week surrounding 8 March.

The United Nations’ theme for International Women’s Day, 8 March 2023 (IWD 2023) is,

“DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”.

This theme is aligned with the priority theme for the upcoming 67th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW-67), “Innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls”.

The United Nations Observance of IWD recognizes and celebrates the women and girls who are championing the advancement of transformative technology and digital education. IWD 2023 will explore the impact of the digital gender gap on widening economic and social inequalities. The event will also spotlight the importance of protecting the rights of women and girls in digital spaces and addressing online and ICT-facilitated gender-based violence.

A gender-responsive approach to innovation, technology and digital education can increase the awareness of women and girls regarding their rights and civic engagement. Advancements in digital technology offer immense opportunities to address development and humanitarian challenges, and to achieve the 2030 Agenda’s Sustainable Development Goals. Unfortunately, the opportunities of the digital revolution also present a risk of perpetuating existing patterns of gender inequality. Growing inequalities are becoming increasingly evident in the context of digital skills and access to technologies, with women being left behind as the result of this digital gender divide. The need for inclusive and transformative technology and digital education is therefore crucial for a sustainable future.

How Can You Celebrate?

Ideas for Rose Day

Write a thank you card to a woman who has made a difference in your life.
Donate to the Rose fund in honour of a woman.
Donate a special lotion, hygiene product, etc., to a center that cares for women.
Donate scarves, mittens, gloves, blanket for the homeless, refugees, etc.
Send a rose to a girlfriend.