Happy International Women’s Day to all the strong, courageous, and resilient women around the world!
This day is a celebration of women’s achievements and a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and equity. International Women’s Day is a focal point of Women’s History Month, which runs throughout March and plays an essential role in highlighting the achievements of women in building, shaping, and advancing our society.
At Pinspiration, we’re committed to helping women grow, thrive, and achieve. But more than that, we’re about honoring the women who came before us, who fought for our rights and paved the way for us to live, laugh, and love as equals (sidenote: if there were ever an award for a business that embodies the ‘live, laugh, love’ sentiment, we’re confident we’d be a shoo-in for the win!).
Pinspiration’s Gender Equity Goals
It’s essential to celebrate the leaps that womenkind has already made. After all, it wasn’t all that long ago that women were restricted from voting or having bank accounts, and the ability to live, work and thrive independently felt like a wildly unrealistic goal. But, thanks to the thousands of fierce and fearless women that came before us, the sky is the limit for modern-day women. And here at Pinspiration, we’re here to help you reach it!
How do we plan to do that, you ask? By pushing not simply for gender equality, but for gender equity in all that we do. The words ‘equality’ and ‘equity’ may sound similar, and they are sometimes (incorrectly!) used interchangeably. However, distinguishing between the two is integral in reducing disparities within our workplaces, homes, and communities, and continuing to build a better world for future generations.
In short, equality means giving everyone the same resources or opportunities, while equity goes the extra step by recognizing that every individual is unique. Being equitable means accounting for varied circumstances and allocating the resources and opportunities each person needs to receive an equal outcome.
At Pinspiration, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to unleash their inner artist. That’s why Pinspiration studios allow every woman equal access to the space, materials, tools, technology, and guidance that may otherwise act as barriers to creativity and output.
Inspirational Women Paving the Way
This International Women’s Day, we’d like to congratulate one of our outstanding franchisees who’s gone above and beyond to unite crafting and the community. We’re proud and delighted to introduce Sonja Cook. A tenured Art History professor and passionate crafter, Sonja runs a Pinspiration studio in Wilmington, providing a welcoming and supportive environment where friends, families, and the community can come together to be inspired and create.
In recognition of Sonja’s achievements, she is being featured in this month’s Mayfaire, in a section dedicated to highlighting Wonderful Women-owned Businesses. Alongside ten other successful female business owners, Sonja is being recognized for her passion, talent, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. Congratulations, Sonja – and may many more Pinspirational women follow in your footsteps!
Leading by Example
It will always be important to shine a light on the achievements of the women who came before us and the trailblazers currently fighting the fight for womenkind around the world. However, it’s also vital we recognize the work that still needs to be done to achieve true gender equality and equity – especially for women who face additional barriers based on their race, ethnicity, religion, and sexuality, etc.
It is our responsibility as women to inspire and guide the next generations. For girls and younger women, learning about women’s achievements expands their understanding of what is possible. Gaining knowledge of women’s strengths and contributions builds respect, nourishes self-esteem, and sends a clear and positive message that women deserve – and are more than capable of achieving – whatever life they may dream of.
The United Nations has identified gender equality as one of its top 5 goals among a total list of 17 to hit by 2030. To achieve this goal, we must all join together to address the root causes of gender disparity – many of which are similar to the factors that perpetuate global poverty and hunger. For example, there are still significant gaps between men and women globally in access to education, healthcare, pay, and policy-making.
Spread the Word this International Women’s Day!
Join the Pinspiration community in our mission to create a more equal and inclusive world! When you actively support and embrace equity within your own sphere of influence, you help drive positive change that leads to more equitable solutions for every woman in society.
On this International Women’s Day, let’s commit to uplifting and supporting each other, advocating for women’s rights, and working towards a world where all women can live free from discrimination, violence, and oppression.
Do you want to help fellow creators find and channel their artistic flair in an inviting and supportive setting where every woman receives the inspiration and guidance they need to unleash their creativity or try DIY? Find a Pinspiration studio near you or reach out to us about setting up your own Pinspiration franchise today, and get started on creating a better tomorrow!
