March 8th is Not Just One Day

Awareness is out and action is in. This International Women’s Day the Executive Director of UN women urged countries to step it up for gender equality & ensure that the world is 50/50 by 2030.  Aptly, this year’s theme is “Make it Happen.”

This is also the first year that the Anchal team is in India to celebrate with Vatsalaya & there isn’t a single better way to spend it than in the company of the bravest, most inspiring, most resilient women we’ve ever met.

To celebrate, women from all over Rajasthan were invited to spend the day together, receive free check-ups, eye exams and glasses if necessary. They took part in self-defense classes, taught by martial arts world champion Richa Guar who spoke to the seriousness of male-generated violence and the importance of being prepared.  The women also enjoyed lunch, sports and dancing. 

Most powerfully, different women shared their personal stories and demanded their human rights be acknowledged. Shanno, a local community leader, is tirelessly trying to remove the barriers between Hindu & Muslim women and support education for all.  She works with women’s rights activist and author, Nishad Husain, who is collecting signatures to pass a law that will legally grant girls with the equal access to education.  Anchal artisans stepped forward and bravely shared what it’s like to be unequal, abused & voiceless.  For the first time in their lives they had a platform to be heard & a network of support.  They shared goals that were once dreams and can now be a reality. Over 100 women were chanting, crying and applauding in support. Their determination was tangible.

The day ended with hugs, high-fives and words of encouragement.  March 8th is not just a day, it's a movement. 50/50 by 2030. We can do it. The time is now.

Help us #makeithappen by supporting International Women’s Day and donating to these amazing women today. Donate NOW >>