International Women's Day - March 8, 2021

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. In support of this message, I would like to celebrate all women, and particularly my mom, Joyce Daly, as well as all the other women who have gone before us.

Mom with Ember

This year the theme for International Women’s Day is #ChoosetoChallenge inequality. Although my mom probably never thought of herself as a feminist, nor was she out to change the world by breaking glass ceilings, I knew her as a strong woman who did her best given the expectations of that time. She valued her education, was excellent at her job, chose to stay home with her children and make a home for her family.

And she rocked that role. She was efficient and enjoyed her “job”. She also was a take charge person, learning to paint the house, to fix things and to play bridge. She was creative, sewing curtains and clothes, trying new recipes, doing needlepoint and knitting. She confronted challenges too, having to move away from family to a new place and managing to budget on only one income. I appreciate her strength and and caring. I am proud that she taught me not to be afraid to express yourself for who you are.

Women are moving into bigger and bigger roles in society, taking their rightful places. But, I value every woman I’ve met, as they have all managed challenges, learned to find their voice and express it, managed to juggle family responsibilities and their own aspirations, and many have become entrepreneurs as their children have grown. To all the strong women I have met and learned from, I wish you a splendid day of celebration.