As March comes to a close, I’d like to I’d like to pay tribute to the remarkable women and girls who inspire us daily. This month, we honoured International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 2025, with a powerful theme: “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”
Beyond the annual International Women’s Day celebrations, I’m compelled to ask: What tangible impact are we having? Despite the festivities year in year out, we’re still confronted with alarming rates of violence against women and girls worldwide. Are we doing enough to address the entrenched inequalities, disparities, and gender-based violence that persist?
I admit, I haven’t done enough to raise awareness and drive change for women’s equality. The problems are intricate and long-standing, requiring more than a ‘one size fits all’ solution. Where I’m originally from, traditional patriarchal norms often restrict women’s opportunities, fueling biases. This creates dilemmas: should we adapt cultural traditions to promote equality or preserve them as part of our heritage? How can we balance cultural preservation with the need for equality and progress?
This brings us full circle to the concept of the quintessential woman. But who is she, really? What qualities define her? How does she present herself to the world? Where does she find her sense of belonging? Does she embody traits like empowerment, intelligence, beauty, and more? These questions spark interesting discussions, and I’m sure everyone’s perspectives will vary based on their unique values and life experiences.
My point is that there’s no one “ideal” woman. The world needs to stop creating unattainable standards for women and girls, as these ideals can lead to feelings of inadequacy, disappointment, and violence. Instead, focus should be redirected to embracing the unique qualities, strengths, and even weaknesses that make women and girls who they really are.
While I may not have all the answers to these dilemmas, one thing is certain: the timeless wisdom found in Proverbs 31. This is where I find inspiration and encouragement – the biblical portrait of a virtuous and noble woman. Here’s a couple of verses:
Proverbs 31:30-31 NIV
[30] Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. [31] Honour her for all that her hands have done, and let her work bring her praise at the city gate.
Let’s shift our focus from idealizing the “perfect” girl or woman to celebrating the remarkable women that God has placed, is placing or will place in our lives – our wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters. When we cultivate gratitude and recognition within our homes, we build a foundation for a more inclusive and supportive society, ultimately contributing to the elimination of gender-based violence and inequality.
And to my sisters in Christ, fear God!
To God be the glory always 🙏❤️
Idau Hahine 