For those of you who may not know, yesterday (March 8th) was International Women’s Day. It’s a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements and advancement of women around the world.
The goal? Create a more equitable world for women politically, socially, economically, and culturally. Currently, women have only 64 per cent of the legal rights that men hold worldwide.
In Milwaukee, we have a long history of women movers, shakers, and disruptors hellbent on creating a stronger community through equitable representation and access.
While we’d be remiss not to talk about the Milwaukee women who first pioneered for equal rights, we wanted to focus on the women who are making a big impact on the lives of our community today.
So, in honor of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, here are a few local women we’re championing not only today, but every day.
Kate is the Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator at MADACC. In her role, she promotes advocacy and stewardship for animals, facilitates the adoption of available pets, and helps get Milwaukeeans involved with the shelter through volunteering.
As part of the Capital Campaign Cabinet for Meta House, a women’s substance abuse and mental health resource center, Lisa has had a direct impact on the capital fundraising for Project Horizon – a new headquarters which will increase treatment availabiliy by 20%.
Ruthie is currently the Clinic Manager at BESTD sexual health clinic which offers free HIV and STD testing for patients to help support a healthy, informed community. She also volunteers at the Wisconsin Humane Society, fosters kittens, sits on the City of Milwaukee Health Department Board of Health, a part of the WPHA/WALHDAB policy and advocacy committee, and also previously was involved with Big Brothers, Big Sisters.
From supporting the Milwaukee Diaper Mission and the Sojourner Family Peace Center to being a member of the UPAF’s NextGen Council, Kristin plays an active role in the community. She also lends her humor and content creation skills to provide real takes on ongoing issues in Milwaukee and beyond.
Donna is the owner of SheWolf MKE, a boxing gym focused on empowering women and bridging community, all with the goal of building a stronger you.. In addition to the gym, she hosts wellness workshops and self defense classes, and also offers Lioness University – a youth empowerment program designed specifically for middle and high school aged girls.
When Anilla isn’t working as the Vice President at BMO Bank N.A., you’ll find her serving as a chairperson of the Young Professional Board for Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin and mentoring students through the Marquette Business Mentor Program. Her focus is on helping women build their self confidence, whether they’re 10 years old or 21 years old
A Brief History on the origin of International Women’s Day
The early 20th century was marked by intense activism for women’s rights, especially here in the United States. Women’s suffrage (right to vote) and labor conditions were two key focuses of demonstrations.
During the US movements, a recognized day for women was ideated by Theresa Malkiel, head of the Socialist Party of America’s Women’s National Committee.
Across the pond, women’s delegations in countries like Germany and Austria were also rallying for a similar recognition to bring awareness to the plight of women worldwide.
Finally, in 1911, women received the day they deserved. On March 8th, 1911 the first International Women’s Day was honored. More than 1 million women across Europe took to the streets not just to celebrate but to focus on what really mattered, their voting and labor rights.
For an in-depth looking at the history of International Women’s Day, check out this timeline from the United Nations.