It's that time of year again—International Women's Day (IWD). A time for celebration, reflection, and a stark reminder: the fight for equality is far from over. Why, in 2025, do we still need IWD? Because the change we envision, the world where every woman and girl thrives, hasn't yet arrived.

We see the most the IWD slogans and hashtags- this year's #AccelerateAction- from the commercial site  www.internationalwomensday.com, urging us to do something. And action is crucial. Every raised voice, every shared story, every step forward matters. We applaud every effort that sparks conversation and fuels progress.

But this year, once again, we urge you to look deeper. Explore the official UN site, where the 2025 theme resonates with profound inclusivity: "For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment." This isn't just a call to action; it's a call for inclusive action. It demands we consider the diverse realities of every woman and girl, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance.

In our increasingly polarised world, conversations about gender equality can be fraught with tension. That's precisely why intersectionality is paramount. Feminism must embrace the lived experiences of all women, particularly those whose voices are too often silenced. We must acknowledge the unique challenges faced by marginalised communities and ensure our activism reflects their needs.

This IWD, we celebrate with passion and we demand with unwavering resolve. We shine a light on the persistent problems and we amplify the voices of women whose stories deserve to be heard. It's not just about demanding; it's about highlighting, about giving a platform, about celebrating achievements, and acknowledging the immense power and resilience of women everywhere.

We need all of it. Just as feminism needs all of us. We need the women and the men allies. We need mothers, and those who choose not to have children. We need the outspoken and the quietly powerful. We need to recognise our shared struggle and celebrate our collective strength and advancement. 

IWD is for everyone. From conferences and film screenings to empowering messages and powerful protests, there's a space for every voice. There's no age limit, no religious requirement, no prescribed uniform. The umbrella of IWD encompasses countless initiatives, all united by the pursuit of equality.

But let's not forget: these events, as vital as they are, are a symptom of the problem. They are a testament to how far we still have to go. Like feminism itself, IWD often faces backlash, and a lot of times get tangled into what is the most perfectly correct way to do things, rather than appreciating that things are happening at all. 

This IWD, immerse yourself in the energy. Experience the power of being surrounded by women. Celebrate their art, their films, their books, their music. Use your voice, however you choose to express it – through protest, celebration, or quiet reflection. Because we need all of it.

This International Women's Day, let's pledge not just to action, but to inclusive, thoughtful, meaningful action. Let's ensure our fight for equality truly benefits every girl and every woman, everywhere.