On International Women’s Day, women around the world join together in
celebration of the intelligence, strength, courage and beauty of women.
Since 1908 this has been a day to celebrate the achievements of women
around the world without regard to their national, ethnic, linguistic,
cultural, economic or political differences.

This week, as Women’s History Month begins, WVFC is starting off our coverage for by noting two events on Thursday, March 5: the opening of the film A Powerful Noise, above, and an international conference call held by Women for Women International. The film follows three women overcoming vastly different challenges:

Hanh is an HIV-positive widow in Vietnam. Nada, a survivor of the
Bosnian war. And Jacqueline works the slums of Bamako, Mali. Three very
different lives. Three vastly different worlds. But they share
something in common: Power. These women are each overcoming gender
barriers to rise up and claim a voice in their societies. Through their
empowerment and ability to empower others, Hanh, Nada and Jacqueline
are sparking remarkable changes. Fighting AIDS. Rebuilding communities.
Educating girls.

And WVFC readers might remember our coverage in Newsmix of Women for Women International  bringing Mia Farrow and Cindy McCain to troubled areas around the world:

This year, join Women for Women International to celebrate the economic and social achievements of women. Honor the women who work to overcome the food crisis in their communities and put food on the table for their families. These women are not waiting for a bailout but are instead learning the skills and techniques of sustainable organic farming to feed their families and support themselves.

Wondering how you can participate in International Women’s Day?

JOIN WOMEN FOR WOMEN INTERNATIONAL FOR A GLOBAL TELECONFERENCE ON MARCH 5th.

Global Program Executive Director Karen Sherman and Dr. Grace Fisiy, Agribusiness Specialist, will talk about what women in our program are doing to eradicate hunger in their countries. Click here for more details.

HOST AN EVENT. There are plenty of ways to celebrate International Women’s Day and to help empower women across the globe. Past events include house parties, book club meetings, art exhibits, and craft shows. Browse the Get Involved! Blog for more creative ideas on how to raise awareness about the global food crisis or download our Event Kit to get started!

For more information on International Women’s Day and Women for Women International, visit Women for Women International’s Website or the Get Involved! Blog.

You might also check out the organization’s YouTube channel, which gives a more detailed perspective on their work on behalf of survivors of war.

Speaking of video, check out the clip below of WVFC heroines Christiane Amahnpour and Irshad Manji.  On Sunday, he discussed the weightiest of matters  — including how powerful the title “Madame” can be in global affairs (as in “Madame Secretary of State”).  In these troubled times, we all could use a bit of  that kind of “Madame.”

— Chris L.