The theme of International Women’s Day 2025 is straightforward: Accelerate Action. And what a motivating theme it is! Given the annual observance of this event on March 8, now is the perfect time to share today’s article focused on the topic of “Women Allies”.
International Women’s Day is March 8, 2025
There is no more meaningful way for women to grow and lead than by doubling down on all of our efforts to support one other. And to do our best to help build solidarity among women, everywhere.
What have you done lately to support your fellow women? Who do you know who warrants more praise, kudos, and celebration?
Commit to taking part in this year’s observance. Become extra mindful of all the amazing women in your life. And those who have been your heroes over the years, too.
Why We Need More Women Allies
Women face systemic barriers in our society. Fostering a culture of mutual respect, admiration and trust among women is critical.
The term used to describe women who support other women is “women allies”.
Today, we explore the reasons why many women do not act as women allies and how to overcome this natural tendency. We also discuss specific meaningful ways that women can support and uplift each other, magnifying their power to drive change and progress.
Why Women Tend to Undermine Other Women
Women sometimes tend to undermine each other or compete in unhealthy ways. This is due to a variety of factors such as societal norms, internalized biases, and limited opportunities for advancement.
Our patriarchal society often pits women against each other in perceived competition for scarce resources or opportunities. Women may feel compelled to engage in unhealthy rivalry or sabotage as a means of self-preservation or advancement.
Internalized stereotypes and biases can also lead to women questioning each other’s abilities or competence.
This inadvertently contributes to a collective lack of mutual support and solidarity.
In male-dominated environments where women are underrepresented, the pressure to stand out and succeed can sometimes manifest in negative behaviors towards other women.
Recognizing and addressing these underlying reasons for undermining or competing with each other is essential.
By doing so, we can create a more supportive and collaborative environment, where women allies can help each other to thrive and succeed.
Women Allies: The Power of Women Supporting Women
The collective strength of women can be a powerful force driving progress and change.
Research shows that when women unite and uplift each other, they not only amplify their individual voices but also pave the way for broader societal shifts towards equality and inclusivity.
According to a study by the American Sociological Review, women who receive support and mentorship from other women are more likely to advance in their careers and achieve leadership positions. This highlights the downstream impact of women empowering each other.
Find Books and Resources that Help to Empower Women
How Women Can Support Other Women
Women can collectively overcome obstacles and pave the way for greater success and advancement. It’s essential to do this to build a culture of support and to challenge systemic inequalities and biases.
The following are tangible and impactful ways through which women can actively support and uplift one another, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and equitable world:
- One of the most impactful ways women can support each other is by celebrating each other’s achievements. Whether it’s a promotion at work, a personal milestone, or a significant accomplishment, acknowledging and applauding the success of fellow women can inspire confidence and motivation.
- Offering mentorship and guidance to other women can provide support and encouragement. Sharing knowledge, experience, and insights can help pave the way for personal and professional growth. This also fosters a culture of learning.
- Women can support each other by actively creating and promoting opportunities for advancement and recognition. Facilitating the growth of other women can have a ripple effect of success.
- Amplifying the voices and perspectives of women is essential for promoting inclusivity and diversity. Supporting each other by advocating for equal representation, fair treatment, and gender equality can drive meaningful change.
More Ways Women Allies Can Support One Another
- Building a community of trust, respect, and solidarity among women is critical. We can do this by creating safe spaces where individuals can express themselves, seek support, and share their experiences. Establishing a network of support can strengthen bonds and provide opportunities for women to navigate challenges together.
- Women can support each other by challenging gender stereotypes, biases, and discrimination. By advocating for equal rights, opportunities, and representation, women can work together to dismantle systemic barriers. This will help to create a more inclusive and equitable world.
- Encouraging a focus on self-care, well-being, and mental health is important. By advocating for self-care practices and wellness initiatives, women can help each other to prioritize health, happiness, and overall fulfillment.
Women have a powerful ability to support and uplift each other in society.
By fostering a culture of celebration, mentorship, opportunity, advocacy, inclusivity, and well-being, women can create a supportive network.
As we do, we amplify our voices, drive change, and pave the way for a more equitable future.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Joan’s career includes clinical healthcare plus 20+ years as an executive in a nationwide health care system and 15 years as a consultant. The common threads throughout Joan’s personal and professional life are a commitment to non-profit organizations, mental health, compassionate coaching, professional development and servant leadership. Joan has had the privilege of mentoring early and mid-career professionals as well as current and future executives and leaders. She is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is also a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me. You can read more about Joan here: Joan Senio.
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