It’s International Women’s Day. For much of the world, it’s a day to celebrate the achievements of women and a call to action for accelerating gender parity. In some countries it’s a day of protest for inequity, poverty, and violence.
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is “Balance for Better.” According to IWD, “Gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive.” Sound familiar? That urge for balance is the same reason why so many – especially women – are supporting Andrew Dale’s bid for Mayor of Muncie.
Why?
- The Dale Campaign runs on ideas like “thriving neighborhoods” and “economic growth” – things that support women and support people from all walks of life. This sounds like common sense. What’s not so common: he has the experience and plan to bring about this change.
- His campaign team is incredibly inclusive and diverse. Women aren’t an item on an “ingredients list” to be sprinkled in for flavor. They’re an integral part of the team and every voice is heard.
- He consistently makes himself accessible. Too shy to publicly voice your concerns at a community event? He stays late and speaks to every person who needs him. Too busy to attend a campaign event? Join him for breakfast on Saturday morning. Can’t make it out at all? He’s up at all hours chatting with citizens who reach out to him. He understands that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to communication.
“Gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive.”
International Women’s Day Website
- He pledges to ensure the advancement of City personnel will be based on merit. That means talent earns the job – not just who you know or who you are. This is a big step towards ensuring our city is lead by those most qualified to do the job.
- He also supports community education opportunities. It is well known that education reduces poverty. It also boosts economic growth and increases income. It increases your chances of living a healthier life. All of this leads to a thriving community.
Goals like these are what is needed to balance our city and ensure opportunities are available for everyone who seeks them. In the United States, we don’t celebrate International Women’s Day as much as other countries. It’s a shame that we don’t. After all, women’s rights are human rights. When we take the time to understand that the playing field is uneven and adjust it or consider the perspectives of those who’ve walked a different path, we open our hearts and minds. We find ourselves listening not only to those of a different gender, but also those of different abilities, race, origin, orientation, religion, age, socioeconomic status, or experience. The things we do to uplift women and girls support everyone in our community.
Full disclosure: Jessica Shrout is a Muncie resident, owner of Circle Three Branding, and Andrew Dale supporter.
