For more than a century, people around the world have marked International Women’s Day on 8 March.
The IWD 2024 campaign theme this year was Inspire Inclusion.
When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world.
And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment.
Purple, green and white are the colours of IWD, according to the International Women’s Day website.
It says that: “Purple signifies justice and dignity. Green symbolises hope. White represents purity, albeit a controversial concept”.
I have met some incredible Disabled women in Milton Keynes, that inspiring inclusion here are 3.
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Whom we sadly lost before Christmas. Was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and ‘written off’ by doctors at birth. Val was awarded the British Empire medal by the lake Queen for her incredible voluntary work.
Val also competed for Britain in the 1980 Paralympics, winning a silver and bronze medals. To this day she is honorary president of the Newport Pagnell Archery Club. Val was a force to be reckoned with. She is missed .
An incredible advocate for sepsis after losing all four limbs due to sepsis. Kim has made it her mission to help others understand this life-threatening condition spreading the vital awareness wherever she goes. You can find Kim keeping everyone up-to-date on her social media platform Kim’s 2nd Chance
Being-awarded for her incredible advocacy and termination. As Milton Keynes inspirational role model at the MK inspiration awards.
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Hannah was born with Albinism and Nystagmus. Hannah started her social media channels‘Blind Mum vs the World’ She started the channel in 2020 and uses the platform to share her experiences of living with sight loss, motherhood and break down misconceptions of what it means to be blind.
These are just three I have named of the incredible women who live in Milton Keynes. We all know someone that inspires us,. Showing the world but it doesn’t matter what cards you are given in life.
This year I was privileged to partner with Enable magazine on the social media campaign for international women’s day.
Why is it important?
it’s important to understand, value and seek out the inclusion of women and girls. Additionally, sharing this knowledge, support and encouragement with others is key.
We are a far cry away from being inclusive.
Breaking down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create an environments where all women are valued and respected.
A quote from me.
Together we can take action to create a more inclusive world.
But why should you include me?
because I have just as much to give, making it my purpose every day to not get lost in a crowd so my voice is heard. So that I can be a voice for those that don’t have one.
It’s important for me to challenge the preconceived ideas of being a disabled woman. I believe I can inspire inclusion and be a role model for the next generation of women and girls.
My determination to never let anything define me as society sees a woman.
don’t worry there is an International Men’s Day takes place on 19 November since the 1990s.
Until next time K 💜
Kerry Thompson - My Life, Kerry's Way. 