A Letter to My Daughter Born on International Women’s Day

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A Letter to My Daughter Born on International Women's Day Charleston Moms
Photo Credit: Lindsay A. Weber Photography

To my daughter,

Today is International Women’s DayIt’s a day to celebrate the accomplishments of strong women everywhere and advocate for women’s equality across the globe.

Today is also your birthday, a day to celebrate you.

Over the past year, I’ve watched you curiously explore every corner of the house. I’ve watched you get right back up when you fall. I’ve watched you love unconditionally. I can see your fiery personality, your determination, and your tenacity. As your mom, more than ever, I want to make the world a better place for you

This year, I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate your day and International Women’s Day, than to share my hopes for you, for your future, and for girls everywhere:

Because worldwide 132 million girls are out of school . . .

I hope you never lose your curiosity. You’ll always find new things to explore, you’ll ask lots of questions, and you’ll take every opportunity to learn.

Because 1 in 3 women will experience sexual assault in their lifetime . . .

I hope the world becomes a safer place for women. I hope you never experience sexual harassment or assault.

I hope that if something should happen to you, you won’t be silenced. You won’t be blamed. You’ll be believed, you’ll be supported, and we’ll hold your perpetrator accountable.

Because women in the United States make only $0.79 for every dollar men make . . .

I hope you earn as much as the man working beside you. When you find an opportunity you want, you go for it. You won’t be afraid to negotiate. You won’t doubt your worth.

I hope you’re never afraid to speak your mind. And when you do, your voice will be heard without dismissal. You’re smart, you’re valuable, and you’ll be treated with respect.

Because only 17% of workers in the United States have access to paid leave through their employers . . .

By the time you have a family of your own, I hope you don’t have to choose between earning a paycheck and bonding with your newborn baby. You and your partner will enjoy paid family leave, so you can take care of your children and each other.

As you juggle life—being a wife, mother, friend, employee, or entrepreneur—I hope you give yourself grace. Always remember that you have a lot to offer the world. You’ll go through seasons, but one role does not define you. I hope you never feel like you’re less than what you should be.

And because you’re my daughter . . .

I hope you dream big. And if your dreams change, I hope you have the courage to start again.

I hope you spread kindness. I hope you recognize the beauty in yourself and others. You are beautiful—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

I hope that you know I’ll always love you; I’ll always support you and I’ll always fight for you.

To my fellow moms,

We can all take a few steps today to create a better world for ourselves and for our daughters. Here are a few simple suggestions to help support and advocate for women.

How are you celebrating International Women’s Day? Comment below!