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Our mothers, our sisters, our daughters, our aunts, our grandmothers, our wives, our friends — where would we be without them? Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune says, “Next to God we are indebted to women, first for life itself, and then for making it worth living.”
Women have played a crucial role in the development of society since society came to be. Whether young or old, single or married, shy or sociable, all women have blessed those around them in some unique way.
Despite advances in women’s equity, women are sometimes still treated less than in the spaces they occupy. No matter who you are or how many people know your name, you can contribute to the uplifting of women.
Women are fully capable of standing up for themselves, but you can stand with them. Here’s how.
1. Listen to them.
When women talk about adverse experiences they are too often labeled as whiners and sometimes just completely ignored. Great trauma ensues from being silenced in the middle of dangerous situations. Even if you can’t change the situation itself, be a listening ear. That in itself hold so much power.
2. Ask yourself if you would do the same thing to a man.
Sometimes it’s really that simple. Would you taunt a man that way? Would you use that tone, that language, those words? Unfair treatment can be so nuanced that it’s sometimes hard to notice, even within yourself.
3. Give them credit for ideas.
We’ve all seen thoughts that were initially introduced by women not be acknowledged until much later when a man says it. If you experience this, redirect credit and praise to the woman who first gave the suggestion. Mention her name. Bring her back into the conversation.
4. See them as humans.
Women are people just like you and want to be treated as such. Don’t think of them as just a solution to a problem you have, but look at them holistically and embrace every part of who they are.
5. Speak up.
Using your voice for a group who is often silenced can make a world of a difference. Don’t be ashamed to stay speak up when you see a woman being mistreated. Say something to someone, even if it’s anonymously.
You won’t regret taking the time to learn how you can stand with women, you will be better because of it. Support women-owned businesses throughout the month of March and beyond.
Happy Women’s History Month!
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