Break the Bias: Women’s Empowerment on International Women’s Day and Beyond

Every year, International Women’s Day (IWD) reminds us of the importance of challenging stereotypes, fighting discrimination, and celebrating the achievements of women everywhere. The 2024 IWD theme, #BreakTheBias, calls on all of us to imagine and actively create a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination—a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to thrive.

But breaking the bias doesn’t happen overnight. It takes effort, awareness, and a collective commitment to change, not just on IWD but every day. Let’s explore how we can recognize bias, educate ourselves, and foster inclusivity to empower women and create lasting change.

Step One: Recognize Your Bias

Take a moment to reflect. When you picture a doctor, a nurse, a soldier, or a forklift operator, does a specific gender come to mind? Chances are, the answer is yes. This isn’t your fault—it’s the result of deeply ingrained societal conditioning that ascribes certain roles to specific genders.

In some languages, like my native Spanish, gender roles are even embedded in the structure of words. For instance, the word recepcionista (receptionist) carries a feminine connotation, and to refer to a male receptionist, you must explicitly say recepcionista masculino. This linguistic quirk reflects an assumption: receptionists are typically women.

Biases like these can be subtle, but they influence how we see and treat people. Recognizing our biases is the first step toward breaking them. When we actively question the stereotypes we’ve internalized, we open ourselves to a more inclusive way of thinking and interacting with others.

Step Two: Imagine a Gender-Equal World

It’s not enough to identify biases; we must also envision what a gender-equal world looks like. Imagine a world free of stereotypes and discrimination.

• A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
• A world where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not ideals but realities.
• A world where every individual can fully express themselves without fear of judgment or bias.

This vision may seem ambitious, but it’s achievable if we work collectively. As the IWD campaign states:

“Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.”

By committing to this vision in our homes, workplaces, and communities, we take a critical step toward making it a reality.

Step Three: Educate Yourself

Education is a powerful tool in the fight against bias. To dismantle stereotypes, we must first understand where they come from and how they manifest.

Essential Reading: bell hooks’ Ain’t I a Woman

A cornerstone for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of race and gender is bell hooks’ Ain’t I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism. This seminal work provides profound insights into how Black women have been historically marginalized and misrepresented. hooks’ analysis is a masterclass in understanding the unique challenges faced by Black women and the systemic forces that perpetuate inequality.

If you’ve never read bell hooks before, this book is an excellent place to start. It will challenge your perspectives and deepen your understanding of feminism through a Black woman’s lens.

Inspiring Media: Conversations on Feminism

Another great resource is Nomawonga Khumalo’s film Five Tiger, which delves into Black feminist themes such as religious exploitation, femicide, and sex work. The accompanying podcast discussion with Khumalo offers invaluable insights into these pressing issues and underscores the power of storytelling in amplifying marginalized voices.

Step Four: Don’t Make Assumptions

Our biases often lead us to make assumptions about others based on their gender. These assumptions can be limiting and harmful, constraining people’s self-expression and reinforcing outdated stereotypes.

Approach People as Individuals

Instead of assuming what someone’s job, interests, or personality might be based on their gender, take the time to get to know them as an individual. Allow people to define themselves on their own terms.

By resisting the urge to pigeonhole others into preconceived roles, we create space for authenticity and freedom. This practice not only empowers others but also enriches our own understanding of the world.

Break the Bias in Everyday Life

Empowering women isn’t a one-time event—it’s a daily commitment. To truly break the bias, we must challenge inequality wherever we encounter it.

In Your Community

Advocate for equitable opportunities in your neighborhood, local organizations, and places of worship. Support women-owned businesses and mentor young women pursuing their dreams.

In the Workplace

Push for diversity and inclusion initiatives in your workplace. Call out gender bias when you see it, and advocate for policies that support gender equity, such as equal pay and family leave.

In Schools and Universities

Encourage young people to pursue careers and interests that defy traditional gender norms. Celebrate achievements regardless of gender and support initiatives that promote gender equality in education.

As the IWD campaign reminds us:

“Individually, we’re all responsible for our own thoughts and actions—every day. We can break the bias in our communities, workplaces, and schools. Together, we can all #BreakTheBias.”

The Road Ahead: Beyond International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is a powerful moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the work still to be done. But breaking the bias requires sustained effort beyond March 8.

• Continue educating yourself and others about the importance of gender equity.
• Celebrate the achievements of women in all fields and walks of life.
• Actively support initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and equality.

By committing to these actions year-round, we can create a world where every individual—regardless of gender—can thrive.