In the USA, UK and Australia, Women's History Month is celebrated throughout March; an opportunity to recognize and learn about women's contributions and accomplishments both past and present that shaped and/or spearheaded countrywide and worldwide cultural and societal progress.
The theme for Black History Month in the United States this year is 'Black Resistance'; a chance to discover and celebrate those who advocated for and defined how liberty, justice and equitable living should nurture and protect Black lives in this country. There's much progress yet to be made in the fight against ongoing racial discrimination; this is why it's essential we learn (all year round) from the trailblazers who've shaped this work so far.
If you support equality and equity or believe both should be a driving force within any society, then feminism has to be included. Most people want to live in and benefit from a fair and just world but when the word 'feminism' is mentioned, it still evokes some disapproval — often because of clichéd misconceptions.
Regardless whether or not you take part in holidays and observances, like Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Festivus, Christmas or Kwanzaa; this time of year is often an opportunity to focus on giving back, spreading kindness and showing love.
Being online has pretty much become part of everyday life for many people around the world. Whether it's to remain connected to loved ones (no matter how far apart), share our adventures and experiences or access and exchange significant information/news events; the internet and social media have the power to quickly amplify and influence many people.
An effort to ban books in U.S. schools, libraries, and university materials/services has seen a recent increase in challenges to stories and information about/by Black and LGBTQ2S+ people — a growing and increasingly worrying trend that is being lead by ultra conservative groups with deep political influence.
Whether we've encountered this at some point ourselves or been guilty of doing it to others; being aware of how/when tone policing is used will help to develop and improve valuable listening and advocacy skills.
If you're looking to donate resources, time, money or raise awareness about organizations and charities that work positively for change then this article includes some valuable suggestions. No matter where you are in the world, you can support the work they carry out.
transatlantic | notes 