International Women's Day 2025: Accelerate Action
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Tiempo de lectura 5 min
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the achievements, strength, and resilience of women. It’s a day to honor progress, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and take action toward a more equitable future. Each year, people worldwide come together to uplift and support women in all walks of life, and in 2025, we are called to “Accelerate Action.”
At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum.
What Does ‘Accelerate Action’ Mean?
The theme for International Women’s Day 2025, “Accelerate Action,” is a powerful call to drive forward real and lasting change in gender equality. While progress has been made, the pace is not fast enough. At the current rate, it could take generations to achieve true gender equity, which is why this year’s theme encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to take swift, bold, and decisive steps toward equality.
To accelerate action means to move beyond discussions and intentions—it means implementing policies that promote inclusion, closing gender pay gaps, increasing representation in leadership, and ensuring all women have access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for success. It’s about breaking barriers and pushing forward to create a world where women and girls are empowered to thrive.
A Look Back: The History of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day has deep roots dating back over a century. The first official IWD gathering took place in 1911, with over a million people rallying for women’s rights in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. What began as a movement for better working conditions and the right to vote has evolved into a global day of recognition, activism, and progress.
Over the decades, we’ve witnessed significant victories, from women securing voting rights and workplace protections to gaining access to education and leadership positions. However, gender disparities persist, particularly in areas such as wage equality, healthcare access, political representation, and protection against gender-based violence. IWD is not just a celebration—it’s a call to keep moving forward, to push for policies and initiatives that make a tangible difference in women’s lives.
https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Timeline
"The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights."
How You Can Participate in International Women’s Day 2025
There are many meaningful ways to participate in IWD and contribute to accelerating action for gender equality. We can call out stereotypes, challenge discrimination, question bias, celebrate women's success, and so much more. Additionally, sharing our knowledge and encouragement with others is key.
🌸 Support Women-Owned Businesses – One of the most direct ways to empower women is by supporting their businesses. Whether you’re purchasing from women-led brands, sharing their work on social media, or leaving positive reviews, every action counts.
📣 Use Your Voice to Raise Awareness – Social media is a powerful tool for change. Share stories of inspiring women, educate others on gender equality issues, and use the official IWD hashtag #AccelerateAction to spread the message.
💜 Donate to Organizations Driving Change – There are countless organizations working to improve the lives of women and girls worldwide. Consider donating or volunteering for causes that resonate with you, such as:
IWD Giving - IWD provides considerable support for philanthropic organizations working to support and advance women's equality.
UN Women Australia - UN Women Australia is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. They work to ensure women and girls worldwide can access vital services and essential hygiene products, especially during conflicts, crises, or natural disasters. Your donation can help protect and empower women and girls in over 100 countries.
ActionAid Australia - A women's rights organisation that empowers women on the frontlines of injustice to transform their communities. They believe in collective action to address systemic patriarchy and work towards gender equality. Donations support their efforts in areas like economic justice, climate justice, and women's rights.
Share the Dignity - An Australian charity that distributes period products to women and girls experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and poverty. They collect hundreds of thousands of period products each year through collection drives and campaigns, ensuring these essential items reach those in need.
International Women's Development Agency (IWDA) - An Australian organisation focused on advancing gender equality across Asia and the Pacific. They partner with local organisations to promote women's rights, leadership, and economic empowerment. Donations support strategic, long-term investments in gender equality initiatives.
Women's Electoral Lobby (WEL) Australia - A national independent, non-party political, feminist lobby group dedicated to creating a society where women's participation and potential are unrestricted, acknowledged, and respected. They advocate for policy reforms on issues affecting women and encourage public debate on women's equality. Donations support their ongoing advocacy and research efforts.
Support The Girls Australia - A grassroots charity predominantly managed and run by volunteers. They provide essential items like bras, toiletries, and menstrual hygiene products to women and girls in need, including those experiencing homelessness or domestic violence. Volunteers play a crucial role in their operations, and donations help sustain their support services.
CARE Australia - Focuses on fighting global poverty and injustice, with a strong emphasis on empowering women and girls. They address issues like economic inequality, access to education, and emergency relief. Donations contribute to programs that promote gender equality and provide resources to those affected by crises.
🤝 Attend or Organize an IWD Event – Many communities and workplaces host events, panel discussions, and workshops to celebrate IWD. Look for local opportunities to engage, or consider organizing your own initiative to promote gender equality.
✨ Mentor and Uplift the Women Around You – Encouragement and support can go a long way. Whether it’s mentoring a young woman in your field, advocating for equal pay, or standing up against discrimination, your actions can create ripples of change.
🧘 Prioritize Self-Care & Well-Being – Empowerment also starts from within. Use IWD as a reminder to nurture yourself, set goals, and acknowledge your worth. Whether through mindfulness, journaling, or celebrating your own achievements, self-care is a revolutionary act.
Making a Difference Beyond March 8th
International Women’s Day is more than a single day of recognition—it’s a movement that continues year-round. The fight for gender equality requires consistent effort, commitment, and advocacy. Here are some ways to keep up the momentum beyond IWD:
Engage in Continuous Learning – Stay informed on gender equality issues and challenge biases that exist in everyday life. Books, podcasts, and educational resources can help expand your understanding.
Push for Change in Your Workplace – Advocate for policies that promote equal pay, flexible work arrangements, parental leave, and diversity in leadership.
Encourage More Women in Leadership – Support initiatives that empower women to take on leadership roles in politics, business, and community spaces.
Hold Brands and Institutions Accountable – Support companies that prioritise diversity and call out those that fail to uphold gender-inclusive practices.
The Future is Bright
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let’s recognize that we all have a role in shaping a better, more equitable future. Progress happens when we work together, championing equity in both big and small ways. This year’s theme reminds us that action—not just intention—is the key to meaningful change. By committing to accelerate action , we can create a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive, where barriers are broken, and where future generations will no longer have to fight the same battles we face today.
Whether you’re using your voice to advocate, supporting a women-owned business, or simply taking time to appreciate the strong women around you, your actions matter. Let’s Accelerate Action —not just on March 8th, but every day.
Happy International Women’s Day! 💜