March 8th marks International Women’s Day, a day in which we celebrate the accomplishments made by women throughout history. Women from our current times as well as in the past will be given recognition for their achievements and mark on the world.
As March draws ever closer, I begin to think more about the women in my life. I think about my mother, who raised three daughters to love themselves and to step through the world knowing their value. My grandmother who, throughout the many decades of her life, found joy in baking and taking care of others. My closest friends, who have endured so much and inspire me each day with their courage. During this time of reflection for the strong women in my family, I should be focusing on the accomplishments women have made throughout the years. So why are corporations trying to advertise to me about women’s rights?
It’s no surprise that companies like to profit from these types of months. They’re not above slapping a vague catchphrase about Black empowerment or women’s equality on a T-shirt and calling it meaningful. Many companies view such months as opportunities to appeal to consumers and present themselves as supportive of social justice movements. While some may be genuine, in our capitalistic world, it can feel like just another way for big corporations to take your money.
Why do we need International Women’s Day?
For millennia, women have been dehumanized and deemed lesser than men. This notion has varied throughout cultures and changed as the years have gone on, but women have largely been viewed as second-class. They had to fight for their right to own money, wear the clothes they wanted, get divorced, and vote in politics. These rights have only recently been won for women in America and Europe. For women of color, it has taken even longer.
Through centuries of progress, women have been able to claim their freedom and assert themselves in history and culture. But that is not the case for all women. Millions of girls and women remain oppressed due to their gender. They face violence, torment, restrictions, and shame. International Women’s Day is about acknowledging how far women have come while also about understanding that the fight is not over.
Time Magazine has documented the chosen “Women of the Year” for the past 100 years, highlighting notable women in history. If you take the time to scroll through their collection, you can learn about the various things that women have experienced and accomplished through the decades. It’s a great resource, and it demonstrates how resilient and influential women can be. I gained vast insight into women both familiar and unfamiliar, and I highly recommend giving it a look to fully grasp why this day is important.
Why can’t corporations celebrate?
I’m not saying that corporations shouldn’t acknowledge these months. It is important for marginalized people to feel celebrated and empowered, especially when they’ve faced years of suppression. If buying a mug with a slogan is how you want to celebrate, then that’s completely fine.
However, it’s an issue when companies say one thing and act differently. Target came under fire at the beginning of 2025 for rolling back on its DEI initiatives, which had allowed for more Black-owned products to be shelved in its stores. But in February, Target stocked their apparel and home decor sections full of Black History Month merch. Customers felt frustrated by the corporation’s flimsy morals and rightfully so. Why limit the reach of Black-owned businesses and then claim to support Black History Month?
It can be hard to know the true intention of corporations. Are they sincere in their claims to support social justice movements, or are they trying to appeal to consumers? Do their actions reflect their sentiments? If you see a shirt in the store claiming “Girl Power,” stop and ask yourself if the message is really being upheld.
Why talk about this?
Our world can be very capitalistic. Money is a powerful motivator, and when there’s something to profit from, companies like to be on top of it. But women deserve more than a slogan on a T-shirt. Throughout centuries of silence and brutality, women have remained resilient. A world without women would be unrecognizable. So many feats have been achieved over the course of human history because of women, and that should be celebrated.
International Women’s Day is a day of remembrance. It’s a day to think back on the struggles women have faced. But even more so, it’s a chance to marvel at the strength women possess and how hard they’ve worked to get where they are now.
How should we celebrate International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day is about remembering women’s history and uplifting female voices. If you want to celebrate this day without falling victim to corporate scheming, here are some ideas.
- Connect with the women in your life – your mom, grandma, aunts, sisters, friends, coworkers
- Educate yourself on women’s history – read a nonfiction book or autobiography on a woman you admire
- Support women-owned businesses – find local businesses in your area
- Volunteer at women’s causes – donate clothes, supplies, money, or your time
- Engage with female creatives – read female authors, watch films by female directors, listen to music by female musicians
- Listen to lectures or podcasts on women’s issues – expand your understanding of the female experience or women’s struggles
Celebrating International Women’s Day can be a deeply empowering experience. You won’t find the same growth or satisfaction buying cheap merch from a multibillion-dollar corporation. Invest in yourself and the women around you and truly make the most of this day. The world is home to billions of women, and it’s time to learn more about them!
