Choose to Challenge: International Women's Day 2023

International Women's Day is celebrated on the 8th of March every year to honour the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. This year, the theme for International Women's Day is "Choose to Challenge," which aims to encourage individuals to challenge gender bias and inequality. As we celebrate International Women's Day in the TLSE office this year, we each choose a quote from a strong female character (real or fictional) that inspire female empowerment and encourage us to strive for equality...

Mikaela's Favourite Quote: "A girl should be two things: Who and What she wants." - Coco Channel

This famous quote from Coco Channel speaks the importance of women being true to themselves and pursuing dreams and goals with no limitations. Us women should be able to choose our paths and be confident in our decisions. And whilst things have certainly come a long way in the past 5o or so years, we still have a long way to go. So you do YOU! Be bold and know you are deserving of what you want.

My Favourite Quote: "Well, as long as I have one ass instead of two, I'll wear what I like, if that's alright with you... " - Erin Brovkovich

In the movie Erin Brockovich, when Ed Masry comments on Erin's wardrobe, she responds with, "Well, as long as I have one ass instead of two, I'll wear what I like, if that's alright with you... You might want to rethink those ties." because women bloody well should have the freedom to express themselves and dress in a way that makes them feel comfortable and confident, without judgment or criticism.

Roísín's Favourite Quote: "What? Like, it's hard? - Elle Woods, Legally Blonde

This quote symbolises the idea that women should not be underestimated or judged based on their appearance or background. Women can achieve their goals and succeed in any field with determination and hard work! The sky is the limit for us girls!

Kristy's Favourite Quote: "Bravo, honey. Bravo." - Samantha, Sex and the City

In Sex and The City, Miranda declares, "I want to enjoy my success, not apologise for it," to which Samantha responds, "Bravo, honey. Bravo." We say BRAVO to women owning their success and not feeling the need to apologise or downplay their achievements... And especially for the comfort of men!

Heidi's Favourite Quote: "And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. Life is a process of becoming, a combination of states we have to go through." - Anais Nin

Anais Nin writes about the idea that women should embrace change and take risks to reach their full potential. It's essential to push ourselves out of our comfort zones and strive for personal and professional growth, whilst always having each others backs as women!

Lily's Favourite Quote: "Thank you for your consideration." - Katniss Everdeen, The Hunger Games

For context, when Katniss Everdeen volunteers as tribute in the Hunger Games, selflessly taking the place of her younger sister, the judges are distracted by their partying, and are unimpressed when Katniss fires her first arrow and misses the bull's-eye by a long shot. Not discouraged one bit, she grabs another arrow and lands a perfect bull's-eye but nobody notices as they're too busy drinking. She grabs one more arrow and fires directly into the party through an apple in a roasted pig's mouth. She takes a bow, snarls "thank you for your consideration," and departs. The ultimate mic drop. "Thank you for your consideration" represents the idea that women deserve respect and acknowledgement for their contributions and efforts. Women should not have to fight for recognition or approval, but instead be valued for their hard work and talents.

International Women's Day 2023 is a day to celebrate the progress made in female empowerment and to continue the conversation surrounding gender bias and inequality. Let us take inspiration from these quotes and strive for a world where women have equal opportunities and are respected for their contributions. It's time to choose to challenge and work towards a more inclusive and equal future.

Let me sign off with the wise words of our queen, Beyoncé, "Who run the world?... GIRLS!"

WORDS | Emma Douglass