My thoughts on International Women's Day, 2025

 P.S. on International Women’s Day, 2025

As I reflect on the speech I delivered on International Women’s Day in 2019, I am reminded of the energy in that room—a gathering of voices, experiences, and aspirations. It was a day of celebration, but also of reflection, a moment to acknowledge how far we had come and how much further we had to go.

Now, in 2025, that journey continues. The conversations have evolved, the challenges have taken new forms, but the essence of this day remains unchanged: to honor resilience, to amplify voices, and to reaffirm our commitment to equality—not just in words, but in action.

To all the women shaping the world in seen and unseen ways, and to those who stand in solidarity with them—may we continue to break barriers, challenge norms, and uplift each other. The echoes of 2019 still resonate, but today, we carry them forward with even greater strength.

As we mark International Women’s Day in 2025, it is impossible to ignore the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women’s lives. The crisis deepened existing inequalities—women bore the brunt of job losses, shouldered the burden of unpaid care work, and faced a rise in domestic violence. Even as the world moves forward, the scars remain, demanding not just recognition but resolute action.

Today, women continue to grapple with wage disparities, precarious employment, healthcare inequities, and the persistent struggle for bodily autonomy and safety. Digital inclusion has opened new opportunities, yet access remains unequal. The climate crisis, too, disproportionately affects women, particularly those in vulnerable communities.

International Women’s Day is no longer just a day of celebration—it is a call to action. True progress lies not just in policies but in everyday choices: in workplaces that foster real equity, in families that share responsibilities, in societies that listen to and uplift women’s voices. As we move beyond the pandemic, let us not return to the old normal but build a future where women’s rights are non-negotiable, opportunities are abundant, and justice is not delayed.

Let today be a reminder that the fight is not over—our collective efforts will shape the world women deserve.

Happy International Women’s Day! 🌸✨