March 8, 2023
Source: un.org/en/observances/womens-day
Take a moment and consider all the ways that technology has touched your life this day. Reading this entry on your device, for one. Perhaps you have also called a friend, checked a weather app or made a purchase. Digital devices, at their best, keep us safe and connected and informed. Now imagine not having access to the digital world. According to the United Nations, “259 million fewer women have access to the internet than men, even though they account for nearly half the world’s population.”
International Women’s Day is a day set aside each year to address challenges that are unique to women and girls. In observance of International Women’s Day, for 2023, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, or U.N. Women, has chosen the theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality.” As our world pivots to an even more digitally integrated landscape, having access and acquiring the knowledge and tools to occupy and thrive in this landscape matter, really matter, in building stable lives and communities. Closing the digital gender gap by welcoming women into STEM careers, providing access, and enforcing a safe digital space for women and girls across the globe are essential to ensuring that equity is achieved.
International Women’s Day reminds us to reflect on our responsibility to make this world a just world. As people of faith called by God to care for one another, let us ensure that digital access is available to all. DigitALL, indeed!
Carissa Herold is marketing associate for Presbyterian Women in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Inc.
Daily Readings
Today’s Focus: International Women’s Day
Let us join in prayer for:
PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Chenoa Stock, Mission co-worker serving in Peru, World Mission, Presbyterian Mission Agency
Rebecca Storti, Director, Meetings & Special Events, Church Engagement, Board of Pensions
Let us pray
Loving Creator, digital technology, when used for good, improves lives. On this International Women’s Day, and all days, let us strive toward gender equality so your daughters, as well as your sons, are empowered to find solutions for a sustainable future. Amen.