By Rebecca Cronk
Each year on March 8th, the world comes together to celebrate women. Personally, I don’t think that this recognition should be limited to just one day but rather we should celebrate, embrace and recognize the value of what women contribute to our society EVERY day.
Typically IWD serves as an opportunity to shed light on issues we as women face related to gender equality, violence against women, and women’s reproductive rights. This year, the focus is to #EmbraceEquity. All too often equality and equity are used synonymously when in fact, by definition they are very different.
Equality in the workplace would suggest that everyone receives the same tools and resources, the same chances, and the same opportunities. Each person is treated the same.
On the other hand, equity suggests that each person is treated as an individual and as such, would receive the resources, tools, and opportunities that they, as an individual, require in order to reach an equal outcome.
Therefore, EQUALITY is the ultimate goal but EQUITY forges the path to getting there.
It is estimated that over 17% of all private sector businesses in Canada are female owned, that women are far more likely to work for themselves than men, and that where their business is concerned, they typically only rely on themselves. In fact, statistically, women make up over 82% of lone entrepreneurs (meaning they have no financial partners) compared to just under 70% for men.
North Grenville is a shining example of a community with MANY successful female leaders and entrepreneurs, and I am so very proud to be one of them.
To all the ladies, young and old, NEVER underestimate your ability, your power, or your worth. We CAN do it all, from owning a business, to being a mom, a coach, a caregiver, a teacher, and a taxi driver. We’ve been shattering glass ceilings for ages and will continue to do so for generations to come.
“A strong woman knows she has strength enough for the journey, but a woman of strength knows it is in the journey where she will become strong.” -Luke Easter
So here’s to strong women everywhere. May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them. Happy International Women’s Day 2023 to all you lovelies. Stand up and be proud of who you are!
Rebecca Cronk is a fitness Specialist and Owner of Get Cronk’d Fitness Studio, Fitness Competitor, partner to an awesome guy, and proud stepmom to one amazing kid.
