AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL at UVA: Why we still need International Women’s Day
The United Nations celebrated the first International Women’s Day on March 8, 1975. Though women’s rights have progressed worldwide, celebrating and empowering women remains just as crucial 46 years later. Throughout 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated gender inequalities around the globe. Its disproportionate impact on women — both economically and socially — has highlighted both the vitality and vulnerability of women in society. We must remember that women’s rights are human rights, and gender inequalities are not issues of the past. There are women around the world who remind us of that, continuing to fight for equality passionately and courageously. Today is when we celebrate them. Amnesty International at UVA strives to bring these women the recognition they deserve. As students, it’s our job to be a leading voice for progress and to educate ourselves and others about these critical issues.