What International Women’s Day means

Me Too movement founder Tarana Burke and former journalist Tracey Spicer will address the Melbourne IWD event. Picture: MICK TSIKAS, AAP

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrated around the world for the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

But it also marks a call to action to accelerate gender parity, raise awareness for women’s equality and call for positive change to advance women.

“Our gender equal future is only possible with more women in leadership, financially empowered and able to fully participate – a future where all women are safe and free from violence, at the heart of decision making for inclusive, educated and innovative communities,” Simone Clarke, CEO of UN Women Australia, said.

On Friday 3 March UN Women Australia will host live events in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, with all presentations available to be streamed on their virtual hub.

In Melbourne, attendees will hear a presentation from‘me too’ movement activists Tarana Burke and Alyssa Milano.

It will feature an in-depth interview with Ms Burke, founder of the ‘me too.’ movement and Australian Walkley Award winning journalist Tracey Spicer.

The official IWD theme in 2023 is Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future.

The presentations across Australia will bring together leaders and change-makers who are redefining innovation – creating new social, economic and cultural codes for a gender equal future.

It will also raise funds to accelerate gender equality.

Find out more at unwomen.org.au