Guest Author - Isabelle A. Harman

Exactly what purpose does it serve the greater female populace to designate one day out of 365 as a day of honor? How can it possibly have a profound impact upon women, let alone girls?

In the United States, Women’s Equality Day is celebrated on August 26 each year. I recently sat through a ceremony celebrating the achievements of women. I arrived, pen and pad in hand, ready to observe the occasion. As we listened to the narrator, watched the pictures of pioneering women flash before our eyes, and listen to women in the audience answer the “Who am I?” questions posed, I felt tears in my eyes and pride in my chest! Women, and the men who supported their efforts, are the reason I have the ability to achieve all that I choose to accomplish.

Then the guest speaker rose and made her way to the podium. I sat up straight ready for words of wisdom – a call to action! Unfortunately, I was deeply disappointed. The speaker was a politician from the State House of Representatives – and her propaganda-filled speech spoke volumes about her focus. My expectations were too high, I’m afraid. Was this an example of the “leveling of the playing field”, if you will, between men and women in politics? Is it all about the song and dance to woo constituents? Have we come so far in the struggle for equality that we think it’s okay to be mainstream?

I almost felt guilty. But then I realized that because of the efforts of women in history, she was able to gain that seat in the House and be mainstream. Because of the sweat, tears, and blood of the women who came before us, she could say and be whomever she chose. I also realized that, in her own way, she also broke down barriers for those of us who will follow.

I had to ask myself how women around the world celebrate those who cleared the path for them. I found that International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8. I also found several organizations that are, today, in the 21st century, continuing to beat down the brush to create a clear path for women around the world.

Women for Women International is an organization dedicated to helping women in war torn regions of our world. They help them create a life full of possibilities. Through training, developing leaders, offering microcredit for entrepreneurs, and having a sponsorship program, these women achieve independence.

CARE another organization that focuses its efforts primarily toward women in developing countries. It is headquartered in Atlanta, GA and provides significant help worldwide.

Those are just two of many organizations that celebrate women every day. They create a future for girls to anticipate and plan their contributions. What about you, what have you done? To answer the question of purpose posed in the first paragraph, visit some of the web sites noted. Come to your own conclusion. Find out what you can do. Then, tell me how you’re contributing.