by Emma, BA (HONS) Media Communications
International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and women’s rights. This year I’m wondering what small changes everyone can make to be a better ally. Being an ally to me involves listening to women’s experiences, challenging gender stereotypes, and fighting against discrimination and violence. Allies should aim to create spaces where women’s voices are respected and celebrated.
Allies need to listen, learn, and consistently advocate for women, even when it involves confronting difficult issues like misogyny and sexism. For me, having supportive peers at university who encourage and recognise my potential makes all the difference. It improves my mental wellbeing and boosts my confidence when someone makes me feel heard and reinforces my capabilities as a woman, especially in fields like PR where women dominate but may not be as celebrated.
Allyship celebrates qualities like resilience, strength and connection, helping to break barriers and support progress despite the challenges. It’s important to make women feel comfortable by addressing uncomfortable comments, catcalling, and inappropriate behaviour, in public and especially in the workplace. I find it useful and comforting when someone speaks up in an uncomfortable situation; one where I may feel too small to react in. We need more allies to ensure women’s safety and comfort are prioritised, just as they are for men.
Having allies that relate to my struggles and understand me makes me feel part of a community and understood. Women should support each other, though this isn’t always the reality. Women can sometimes bring each other down, but small acts of kindness like a compliment or even a smile can brighten someone’s day and make someone feel seen. Personally, I’m working on complimenting others first more often – I want to make the effort to uplift others.
Becoming an ally
Becoming an ally means supporting women every day and creating a more inclusive and empowering environment. To help, start by:
Educating yourself
Feeling listened to as a woman allows me to have the confidence to share my experiences and educate others on what past situations have made me feel uncomfortable, or if something didn’t sit right with me. Read books, listen to podcasts by women, and ensure the women around you feel safe and valued.
Speak up
When you witness inequality, say something! Having been in many situations where nothing was done, I can confirm it’s so disheartening to experience as a woman. Support women’s achievements, share their work, and give credit where it’s due. This is a big one – women deserve the same song and dance that men get.
Mentorship
Women are wise and strong. We should all try a little bit harder to offer guidance and support to other women, whether professionally or personally, to help elevate each other. Lastly, support women-owned businesses by investing time, money, and resources into their success.
These everyday actions are simple but powerful ways to be an ally and make a meaningful impact on women’s lives.
International Women’s Day is a reminder that empowering women benefits everyone. Achieving true gender equality requires the collective effort of women, men, and non-binary people. This year, let’s celebrate women and remember that we can all be allies.
Happy International Women’s Day!