International Women's Day - Break the bias

To observe International Women’s Day this year, we wanted to help spread the word about on this year’s them, “Break the Bias” and why it is so important that opportunities are free from stereotypes or discrimination and are equal for all genders.

Unfortunately, we do not need to look too far to find examples where inequality between genders is prevelent. In just the medical arena alone, there are very real and evidenced examples of a gender bias across healthcare which includes a lack of research and diagnoses for women,  gaps in medical research and disbelief in women’s symptoms (source: IWD: IWD 2022 campaign theme: #BreakTheBias)

If you also consider the imbalances which can be found between genders educationally, professionally, out in communities and within relationships  (to name a few), it can feel as though the gender inequality issue is a mountain too high to climb..

Working within fostering, you may see young women feeling even more disadvantaged as they are moving towards independence and face the different misconceptions and labels that can be associated with having been in the care system.

The theme “Break the Bias” invites us to imagine a gender equal world and shines a spotlight on inequality.

It can be hard to see biases when they are so ingrained and systemic, and it can also seem like a massive undertaking to try and change things when biases happen every day in all arenas, and on a global scale.

But what we can do as as members of society and human beings, is to be responsible for our own thoughts and actions to bring about change in our own lives. If we each take a stand to call out and break down the biases we see in our relationships, workplaces, in our homes, or in our children/young people’s schools we can all help shine a light on the biases and all work towards a reality where we live in a gender equal world. As we know, children/young people often learn by example, so in doing so, we can empower young women coming through care to truly believe in themselves and be the best that they can be.

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.

Blog by Referrals Coordinator, Deborah Harris.