Seattle Celebrates International Women's Day

Women: who needs 'em? You know, besides everyone, in order to be alive and stuff. Today is International Women's Day. Originally International Working Women's Day, the day has roots in socialism is designed to recognize the rights and achievements of women around the world. In some countries, women get the day off work, or even get special gifts. In the United States, we just get to work more. But that's cool, at least we have the right to vote—unlike women in 65% of UN member nations.

Events like International Women's Day serve as an important reminder that women are less likely to be CEOs or heads of state, and to occupy other positions of power. This year's IWD theme is equal access to education (particularly in technology and the sciences), a critical issue in helping women around the world achieve all that they can.

To help celebrate International Women's Day, consider one of the local events happening here in Seattle. But celebrating women isn't the under the purview of just one day: every day merits thoughtful, respectful, and encouraging treatment of all humans.