On March 8, 2025, communities around the world gathered to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD), a day celebrating women's rights and equality. Events spanning from Palm Springs, California, to Abuja, Nigeria, showcased passionate voices advocating for women's empowerment, while addressing ongoing challenges many women continue to face.
In Palm Springs, the International Women’s Day rally drew nearly 1,000 participants. Clarissa Cervantes, a city council member and political strategist, stood out as a key speaker. Inspired by her childhood education on civil rights, Cervantes expressed deep concern for the current state of women’s freedoms. "People have always been at the core of moving and changing history, as I shared with the group," she said. "This is exactly what I learned about. We have that power when we come together."
Joy Silver, chair of the Riverside County Democratic Party, played a pivotal role in organizing the Palm Springs rally, co-founding the group Courageous Resistance/Indivisible of the Desert. "Freedom is something that always needs to move forward and be protected. It’s something we have to always fight for," she declared. Silver's assertion resonated with the crowd as they rallied against the perceived threats to personal freedoms.
Among the passionate women was Kimberly Skeete, who introduced herself as a Black trans woman and the chair of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (ANAC). She emphasized the power of empathy and solidarity, stating, "I’ll never be able to walk in your shoes. But I can at least walk beside you while you walk in those shoes. We’re stronger together."
Meanwhile, in Abuja, Nigeria, experts and stakeholders convened at a conference organized by the Center for Peace Advocacy and Sustainable Development (CEPASD). The theme, "Breaking Barriers, Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment," focused on the persistent disparities women face in leadership positions and access to education. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, a prominent speaker at the event, emphasized the crucial role of women in a nation's development. "Women are instrumental in the development of every nation," she remarked, echoing calls for increased educational support and leadership training for women.
Prominent political figures like former House of Representatives member Hon. Buhaji Aliu highlighted the significance of the Beijing Declaration, which calls for gender equality in leadership roles. He noted, "The Beijing Declaration is 30 years old. And look at what is happening. Today in the National Assembly, we have only four women in the Senate,” stressing the need for immediate action towards achieving the 30% affirmative action goal.
Back in Palm Springs, activist Maddison Eberts also took the stage. A doula and student midwife, she explained the political aspects of her work while advocating for reproductive rights. "Primarily, my work is localized... I think that it’s very important to realize that birth work is political, and will always be political," Eberts said, reflecting the urgent need for comprehensive access to healthcare and mutual support.
The IWD celebrations were not limited to political activism. In Nigeria, Pernod Ricard hosted an event at the Jameson Yard in Lagos, themed "Accelerate Action." The gathering featured a fireside chat where women shared experiences and insights on personal and professional growth. Guest speaker Chioma Omeruah (Chigul) inspired attendees by discussing how to build legacies amid challenges.
Michael Ehindero, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, expressed gratitude for women's contributions, saying he would continue to support their efforts through the PRN Women Network, established in November 2024. He affirmed, "The group aims to promote gender diversity, inclusion, and empowerment in the industry."
Looking ahead, the celebration didn’t end on March 8th. On March 25, 2025, the Women in Automotive Industry group is set to honor Ebere Anenih, Managing Director of Weststar Associates, for her outstanding contributions to the sector. Julie Chi-Nwaoha, founder and convener of the group, stated, "Her leadership and commitment to excellence are an inspiration to women everywhere. We look forward to celebrating her success as we celebrate International Women’s Day."
As the IWD events unfolded, a strong narrative of activism and solidarity emerged. Figures like Susannah Delano, head of Close the Gap, emphasized the importance of increasing female representation in legislative bodies, advocating for a better balance of voices. "We’ve never really had the chance as a nation or a state or a region to see women sitting around the decision-making table in equal numbers," she highlighted.
Across the world, one central theme prevailed: women’s rights are human rights that must continue to be fought for diligently. The movements are not simply about celebrating achievements but recognizing the road ahead remains long and challenging. Activists advocate for united efforts to push back against regressive policies, aiming not just for national but global progress. With collective will, as Cervantes concluded, "We can change the course of history."
