Steminist blog

IWD 2024: Inspiring Inclusion

Shreyasi Mukerji

Just yesterday, I was in a Zoom call with participants from all around the globe, and various people from diverse ethnicities presented in English. It was a technical meeting, and even through a virtual meeting I could sense frustration through the attendees as one person struggled to explain a technical concept. It reminded me of a dialogue by Sofia Vergara's character in Modern Family, in which she yells, "Do you even know how smart I am in Spanish?" 

Inclusion, with its myriad complexities, is a curious concept. It may be all about embracing diversity and celebrating its richness, but it varies between finding delightful learnings and connections, and misunderstandings waiting to happen. It's like navigating a maze. 

What does inclusion mean for a woman's fight for equity? We often talk about acknowledging the unique contributions, perspectives and talent women bring to all aspects of life, personal and professional. Yet it is absurd that there's still the need to fight at all for basic rights and equal opportunities in a world that claims to value equality.  

Inclusion for women is a multifaceted process of reclaiming narratives and harnessing humor as a tool for empowerment, challenging stereotypes, and affirming one's rightful place in society. Despite significant strides, women encounter persistent obstacles in their journey towards inclusion, facing systemic barriers that hinder their advancement. This is where intersectional inclusivity emerges as pivotal, recognizing the intricate layers of discrimination women experience based on factors such as race, ethnicity, sexuality, disability, and socioeconomic status.

People draw inspiration from each other's resilience, forming powerful networks of solidarity to confront societal norms and drive meaningful change. Inclusivity devoid of intersectionality lacks depth and impact. True inclusivity means uplifting marginalized voices, addressing their unique challenges, and advocating for equitable representation. Intersectionality breathes life into inclusivity, making it meaningful and transformative.

As we approach International Women's Day, it is imperative to reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where every human is valued, respected, and empowered to fulfill their potential. Because we know how it feels to be left behind.