Can you imagine a world in which there is gender equality? Where there is no bias or stereotypes made based on gender including trans women, cisgender women, non-binary and gender non-conforming people? Let’s unite to #BreakTheBias starting with examining our own biases to stop discrimination and take action that promotes inclusivity and equitable treatment for all.

The societal roles of women have changed significantly throughout history, especially as women have taken key leadership positions in politics, business, science, and technology. Reviewing a women’s-rights-movement/detailed-timeline, women did not have equal rights or opportunities until fairly recent changes in many areas. It was not until 1938 in which the Fair Labor Standards Act established minimum wage without regard to sex and until 1974 in which housing discrimination based on gender was outlawed by Congress.

The United States has been making advances with placing women in leadership but progress still lags when compared to many-nations worldwide with women-leaders-of-the-world. Activism, education, business, technology, healthcare, and law these are so important as well as all the major industries in which women are underrepresented such as construction and manufacturing.

One specific area is within our political systems, since the voices represented influence key decision-making that impact collective groups of people. It wasn’t until 1981 when Sandra_Say_O’Connor was appointed as the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court. In 2009 Sonia_Sotomayor was the 3^rdwoman (and first Hispanic woman) of 111 appointed to serve on the Supreme Court. Of the 46 presidents of the United States, not one yet has been a woman although Hillary Clinton was the first female to run for president in 2008 and Kamala Harris is the first female vice president.

Forbes list of the world’s most powerful women of 2021 note: “It’s not just enough to have money, or a position of power. A person must be doing something with their fortune, voice or public platform.”

I am grateful to be surrounded by powerful, influential women leaders at CARE Counseling who are committed to the mental health community and advancing social justice in mental health.

Let’s take a moment to recognize and honor the women who have made these changes happen, women in history who have paved the way for equality. Together, you and I can continue the work as we celebrate the achievements and advances for International Women’s Day.

Written By: Charlotte Johnson, MA, LPCC