Similarly, Cardiff University’s psychology society ran a two-day donation drive and awareness stall for Cardiff Women’s Aid and for Cardiff University’s disclosure response team at the Centre for Student Life. This gave members of the Cardiff community an opportunity to donate vital resources such as clothes and bedding. When asked what International Women’s Day meant to them as a society, a spokesperson for the society responded that “As a committee full of women, International Women’s Day is a chance to spread awareness for important issues facing us today”. They went on to tell me about why they felt more people should be hosting similar events to raise awareness stating that “We were able to inform many people of the brilliant services that Cardiff Women’s Aid and the disclosure response team provide as well as raising funds”. They continued stating that events like these are so important because they “think it is important to highlight the oppression women have faced within history and that they still face today, alongside celebrating women’s victories”.
Indeed, while it is important to celebrate the achievements of women on International Women’s Day, it is also vital to acknowledge the struggles that women face on a day-to-day basis. That is why fundraisers such as these are a phenomenal way to celebrate International Women’s Day. They create real action and real change.