Since the first International Women’s Day on March 8, 1911, this special occasion has been an annual reminder to continue building a fair and just society worldwide. It is not specific to any nation, group, or organization. The day commemorates women’s achievements, progress toward gender equality and helps us reflect on achieving equity for everyone.
This year’s theme is #ChooseToChallenge. According to InternationalWomensDay.com, we are all individually responsible for supporting equal rights and advocating for positive change. We can choose to acknowledge and honor the contributions of women and minorities in our global society. Similarly, we can choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. When we come together, we have the potential to create a more inclusive world.
In the words of Gloria Steinem, “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single individual nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”
As a 100% online University offering degrees and certificates to learners across the globe, we are proud to do our part, especially on International Women’s Day, by making strides toward improving access to education for women and girls in underserved communities.
CalSouthern’s partnership with CALPAK Education Services, a U.S.-based nonprofit agency committed to educating all children of Pakistan, one adopted school at a time, is one such way this is made possible. Together, CalSouthern and CALPAK transcend borders and provide in-country educational opportunities in collaboration with Pakistani universities, organizations, and government ministries.
In honor of International Women’s Day, we would like to thank all of the women who make up our board of directors, executive leadership, staff, faculty, learners, alumni, and CalSouthern community. We are grateful to each of you for your efforts to continue promoting diversity, inclusion, and equality while inspiring the next generation of lifelong learners. We appreciate all that you do.