International Women’s Day and the role of Allyship

International Women's Day is on the 8th of March. This year it focuses on #breakthebias. This campaign celebrates women’s achievements, raises awareness, and hopes to bring about action for gender equality. Click here to read our Ripple Paper focused on Feminist Leadership.

Hot off the press! Two very impressive people, Jade (Dalton) and Dr Lynne (Sedgmore), have written our latest Ripple Paper titled "Allyship-Journey to Justice". Being an ally is a form of relationship that helps others to grow and to reach their full potential. More specifically, allyship is conscious and deliberate about tackling injustices. This involves the role that an ally can play in addressing the challenges faced by patriarchy, hence it is timely that we are able to share this now. We hope that you find this paper useful, and it encourages you in your journey to being an effective ally!

We are fortunate to have some inspirational partners that are committed to making a transformational difference regarding gender equality. Some are pictured in the collage above and include organisations such as: Ella’s, United Purpose The Gambia, An Cosán, TechnoServe, ActionAid Ireland, International Presentation Association (IPA), United Purpose Malawi and De La Salle. Here are some more specific examples of what they are doing to tackle gender equality…

United Purpose Malawi have enabled women to diversify their income and become more self-sufficient. This has been impactful as it has increased communities’ resilience in the face of changing weather patterns. Read this article to find out more.

ActionAid Ireland has been continuing its activities to end the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM). With the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, ActionAid Ireland has adapted this to create an online project where participants can use resources to become more informed.

The IPA has contributed to several initiatives involving indigenous women: e.g., it has been working with the Guarani people in Bolivia, supporting women to protect their local environment, gain access to education and employment and have the right to own land. To find out more click here.

Change maker of the week:

Quote of the week
There is no such thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives.” Audre Lorde

Best wishes,
Ian, Lorna, Rosie and Megan