Today we’re celebrating strong women around the world. It’s a day when we recognise the amazing social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women – while also campaigning for greater progress towards gender equality.
International Women’s Day has been celebrated since the early 1900s. Although we’ve made great progress since then, the problem of gender inequality still persists around the world.
For all of us at If Not Now, gender equality, diversity and inclusion is not confined to a one-day initiative – it is a year round priority. To celebrate this special day, we’ve donated to four women’s charities. Here’s who we chose…
HANNA HENSHALL
My chosen charity is SafeLink Bristol. Women are overwhelmingly the majority of victims of domestic and sexual abuse, and sadly many women struggle to escape the abuse permanently, build their independence, and get their lives back. This charity provides support for anyone who has been the victim of rape and sexual abuse across the Avon and Somerset area. They also provide women’s mental health and domestic abuse support service. I first heard about this charity when my best friend, Maisie took on the role of Independent Sexual Violence Advisor at SafeLink Bristol. I’m in constant awe of her work, which is supporting abuse victims and empowering them to live better and safer lives. If you’re going to do one thing for International Women’s Day, please have a read about this local charity and donate!
CHRIS BETTLES
My chosen charity is WomanKind, because of the amazing work they do supporting women’s movements around the world. I truly believe that if we address gender inequality and women’s rights within our global society, we will be able to better tackle many of the other challenges we face especially including war and poverty. WomanKind has 3 key aims 1) To end all forms of violence against women and girls 2) To Improve women’s economic rights and control over resources and 3) To boost Women’s influence in decision making and ability to exercise political power. I want you to just stop for a second and think about a world in which these aims are realised. Yes, it would be incredible wouldn’t it? Now go and find out more about this awesome charity.
HANNAH CONDUIT
My chosen charity is Women’s Environmental Network because it’s the only UK organisation advocating specifically for women and the environment. The Women’s Environmental Network is hugely impactful in raising awareness around the gendered impacts of climate change. They also work to highlight the links between gender, environmental chemicals, poverty and health. I love the work they do, and their intersectional, forward thinking and practical approach to women’s issues is one I greatly respect. It’s also their 30 year anniversary this year so a little well done to them for that too! Find out more here.
