At Fair Anita, International Women’s Day isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. This day is about honoring the strength, resilience, and achievements of women worldwide while continuing to fight for gender equity. It’s about celebrating progress while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done.
Why International Women’s Day Is Special to Us
Fair Anita was built on the belief that economic opportunity is a fundamental step toward gender equality. When women have access to fair wages, safe working conditions, and the ability to support themselves and their families, communities thrive. This is why we partner with women artisans in 9+ countries, ensuring they earn sustainable incomes through ethical fashion and handmade goods. These incredibly talented women inspire us with their creativity, perseverance, artistry, and skill.
But International Women’s Day is more than just economics (though $ is a crucial factor in true equity!)—it’s about amplifying voices that often are spoken over, recognizing differing and diverse experiences, and feeling grounded in solidarity with women everywhere. It’s about making sure every woman, regardless of her geography, feels safe, valued, and respected. We all deserve the opportunity to live with dignity and independence.
How We’re Celebrating
In 2019, I celebrated International Women's Day in Delhi, India. Our incredible partners organized a huge women's rights rally -- it was an unforgettable event surrounded by hundreds of changemaking women.
In 2020 on International Women's Day, likely one of the best days of my life, was spent in Chimbote, Peru with our American + Peruvian partners, truly celebrating sisterhood. We visited this park I've been told about for years, with pools, playgrounds, a mini zoo, live band: all sorts of things you don't see often around Chimbote. We were exploring and enjoying a nice lunch when I asked MariCarmen (Peruvian artisan) what we should do next, to which she promptly responded "I'm going swimming." MariCarmen, 27 at the time, lives her life in a wheelchair -- but this badass woman wasn't kidding, and her determination was fierce. It took 6 strong women, obviously led by MariCarmen herself, to get her into the pool, and what followed was joy like I had never witnessed. She inspired other members of the artisan group to get in the pool, too -- all people who had never been swimming before! MariCarmen's leadership, her willpower, her confidence, her courage -- it was the best thing I've ever seen. The ladies that surrounded her with their strength to make this big goal happen -- it was powerful.
You've heard me say it again and again, but I truly believe it: resilience is easier in community. The more we are, the stronger we are. When I've been at my lowest, it was women who helped me find myself and create steady footing. It has been collaboration between women, from all over the world and different life experiences, that have made Fair Anita what it is today. We aren't perfect -- but we're part of a beautiful community of women that's committed to supporting one another.
The Work Continues
International Women’s Day is a celebration, but it’s also a call to action. We believe that when women rise, we all rise. Let’s continue to uplift, empower, and invest in women—on this day and every day.
🌍 Shop with purpose – Every purchase from a women-owned business is a step toward creating a more equitable world. Did you know that for every dollar a woman earns, 80-90 cents goes back to her family and community (as opposed to 30-40 cents by men) -- that's some world-changing economics, people! If you're based in the Twin Cities, check out our social media for recommendations on local women-owned spots!
💬 Raise your voice – Advocate for policies that support gender equality and human rights. Have your representatives heard from you lately? There's one heck of a lot going on-- make your voice heard!
❤️ Support women in your community – Whether it’s hiring, mentoring, volunteering, or simply showing appreciation, small actions create big change. Reaching out and checking on a friend can make all the difference.
Happy International Women’s Day from all of us at Fair Anita! Forever grateful for the global sisterhood that makes resiliency a communal effort.