Why Gender Equality Matters for Youth: A Call to Action on International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD) happens every year on March 8, celebrating the achievements of women while recognizing the challenges they still face. But IWD isn’t just about the past—it’s about the future and how today’s youth can help shape a more equal world.
If you’ve ever wondered why gender equality matters or how young people can make a difference, this is for you!
What Does Gender Equality Mean for Youth?
Gender equality means that everyone—regardless of gender—has the same rights, opportunities, and freedoms. But right now, girls and young women still face barriers in education, leadership, safety, and representation.
Here’s why this matters:
Education: Girls are more likely to be pulled out of school than boys, especially in low-income communities. Even in places where education is accessible, they often face discrimination in STEM fields.
Opportunities: Women still earn less than men for the same jobs, and fewer women hold leadership positions. In 2024, women earned an average of 85% of what men earned, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of median hourly earnings of both full- and part-time workers. In 2003, women earned 81% as much as men.
Safety: 1 in 3 women worldwide will experience gender-based violence in their lifetime, according to the United Nations. And online harassment against young women is on the rise and impacts the mental health of girls and teens.
Representation: Women’s voices are still underrepresented in government, business, and media.
The Power of Youth in the Fight for Gender Equality
Young people aren’t just the future—they’re the present. Teens and young adults have been leading movements for social change, from climate activism to racial justice. Gender equality is no different. Youth pay attention to the decisions and conversations around them while thinking to their futures.
What Can You Do?
You don’t have to be a politician or CEO to make a difference. Here are simple ways youth can take action:
Speak Up: Challenge stereotypes in school, on social media, or in everyday conversations. If you hear someone say, “Girls aren’t good at math” or “That’s a boy’s sport” push back.
Support Each Other: Whether it’s hyping up your friends, calling out sexism, or supporting women-owned businesses, small actions matter.
Get Educated: Learn about inspiring women in history, the gender wage gap, and the impact of inequality. Knowledge is power!
Be an Ally: Gender equality isn’t just a girls’ issue—it’s everyone’s issue. Allies of all genders can help by standing up for fairness and respect.
Use Your Platform: Whether it’s TikTok, Instagram, a school club, or the Women’s Advocacy Council for Youth at OP, use your voice to spread awareness. Social media has the power to create real change!
International Women’s Day reminds us that equality for women is more than just one day—it’s a movement. The fight for equality continues, and young people have the energy, creativity, and power to push for real change.