From Words to Action: Honoring Women’s Rights on International Women’s Day
For centuries, women have raised their voices, demanding dignity, equality, and justice. International Women’s Day is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action, reminding us of the progress made and the battles still ahead. From historic speeches to global movements, the fight for women’s rights is an ongoing journey, built on the courage of those who refused to be silenced. Today, we reflect on key moments in history that continue to shape the landscape of gender equality.
Sojourner Truth’s ‘Ain’t I a Woman?’ (1851): Long before global declarations, a former enslaved woman stood before a crowd in Ohio and delivered one of the most powerful feminist speeches in history. Sojourner Truth’s ‘Ain’t I a Woman?’ challenged both racial and gender discrimination, questioning why women—especially Black women—were denied the rights afforded to others. Her words still ring true today, urging us to dismantle intersectional barriers that persist in our societies.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948): Drafted in the aftermath of World War II, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a groundbreaking document affirming that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Yet, in many parts of the world, women were still denied these fundamental freedoms. This declaration laid the groundwork for future legal frameworks that explicitly recognized women’s rights as integral to human rights.
Women in Construction: The construction industry has long been a male-dominated field, but women have played crucial roles throughout history. During World War II, thousands of women stepped into roles as welders, electricians, and builders, keeping the industry alive. Despite these contributions, challenges remain. Today, women make up around 10% of the global construction workforce, and while representation is growing, gender bias, wage disparities, and underrepresentation in leadership persist.
Despite these hurdles, women are shaping the future of construction. Initiatives like mentorship programs, scholarships, and policies promoting diversity are opening doors for the next generation of female builders. The industry is recognizing that diversity leads to innovation, improved problem-solving, and stronger project outcomes.
CEDAW / The Women’s Bill of Rights (1979): The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) was adopted by the United Nations in 1979, pushing governments worldwide to take legislative action against gender discrimination. Often called the ‘Women’s Bill of Rights,’ CEDAW holds nations accountable for ensuring women’s full participation in society. Its impact continues to be felt as advocates use it to challenge injustice and drive policy reforms.
The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995): In 1995, 189 countries gathered in Beijing for the Fourth World Conference on Women, setting forth a bold agenda for gender equality. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action remains one of the most comprehensive blueprints for women’s empowerment, addressing issues from political participation to economic security. It called for systemic change, reminding the world that women’s rights are human rights—full stop.
#MeToo (2017): The #MeToo movement shook the world in 2017, exposing the pervasive reality of sexual harassment and assault. What began as a social media hashtag became a global reckoning, holding powerful figures accountable and forcing industries to confront deep-seated misogyny. #MeToo proved that silence is no longer an option, and collective voices can drive change.
From speeches that stirred souls to legal frameworks that set standards, history has shown that progress is never given—it is demanded. International Women’s Day is a reminder that while we honor past victories, we must also forge ahead. The fight for gender equality is far from over, but together, we can ensure that every woman’s voice is heard, her rights are respected, and her potential is limitless.
This International Women’s Day, let’s turn inspiration into action. Let’s build, uplift, and break barriers. Because when women rise, the world rises with them.
With gratitude & ambition,
CATALINA TRANDAFIR
Founder, The BuildHer Network
