Are you ready to break the biases that hurt women and girls? Today, International Women’s Day (IWD), is a time for the world to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women all around the globe. The theme of International Women’s Day 2022 is “#BreakTheBias”:

“Imagine a gender equal world.

A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.

A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

A world where difference is valued and celebrated.

Together we can forge women’s equality.

Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.”

IWD’s Tech Missions

One of the biggest biases that women and girls face is the stereotype that they are not good at science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). In fact, many women have made history in these fields, though their achievements have often been ignored. Unfortunately, many girls internalize the idea that they are not good at STEM, and often lack mentors who can help them see themselves as future scientists and engineers. As a result of these and other barriers, only 28% of women work in STEM. A big goal of International Women’s Day is to get more young women in STEM. Take a look at IWD’s tech missions to learn more about this mission. 

Introduce Students to Google’s Female Technologists:

A great way to increase awareness for women in tech is to join Google for its live streamed Global Summit. The event will feature panels, workshops, and tech talks focused on the accomplishments and future of women technologists at the company and within the larger tech industry. 

Fun K-12 Activities to Celebrate IWD:

Looking for something fun to do with students that will raise their awareness of issues affecting girls? Check out this list of IWD K-12 activities:

See IWD’s full list of virtual and in-person events all around the world. 

What is IWD?

“International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality,” the IWD states on its website. “IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group or organization specific.”

Explore the Girls in STEM tag on IEEE TryEngineering to see more information and resources.