Here's How You Can Participate in International Women's Day

March 8 is International Women’s Day, a day to mark the social, economic, and cultural impact of women.

In 2019, the theme was #BalanceforBetter, an effort to achieve gender balance through collective action, whether in the workplace, in the media, or at home. This year, the International Women's Day organizers are running with #EachforEqual, a push to help create a gender equal world.

"We can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women's achievements," the International Women's Day site noted.

And while the initiative is certainly a big one, it's important to remember that this is a day that's more or less about women "showing up" and being counted — and so a lot of the ways to observe it involve literally showing up places, and posting a selfie that proves you were there. If there's one thing we know by now, it's that an Instagram post with just the right message and hashtags — #MeToo and #TakeAKnee being just two examples — can spark social change.

Want to get involved in the movement? Here's how you can participate in International Women's Day, no matter your location, financial situation, or availability.

VIDEO: International Women's Day Celebrations Around the World

Wear Purple

Fun fact — purple is an international symbol for women. For that reason, you can show your support for the International Women's Day #EachforEqual effort by wearing your favorite purple outfit and even adding a touch of green and white. According to the International Women's Day website, the Women's Social and Political Union in the UK initiated the color combination. Purple is meant to signify justice and dignity, and green is the symbol of hope.

Post a Photo

Encourage friends and family to join in by posting a photo of yourself on social media in the #EachforEqual pose. Snap a shot with your arms stacked one on top of the other to show your support for a gender equal world and you'll inspire a call-to-action. Use the #EachforEqual and #IWD2020 hashtags to help your followers find like-minded participants.

And if you are seeking some #IWD2020 photo inspiration, then you'll want to check out the International Women's Day 2020 Image Collection. You can also submit your own #EachforEqual images by downloading the EyeEm app for iOS or Android and uploading your photos from local events or celebrations.

You can even jazz up your photos by creating social cards with purple frames and the International Women's Day logo to help bring awareness to the mission. The IWD website also offers selfie cards, which are really pretty necessary for all things #EachforEqual. Messages include "I will call out gendered actions or assumptions" and "I will help forge a gender equal world."

Attend a Local Event

If you are looking to attend an International Women's Day event, then you'll want to check out the website's search tool to locate one in your area. All you have to do is select your country and town or city to find a list of local events. You can also publish an event if you are planning one of your own.

One worth noting: The IWD's flagship event, "Women in Industry: Building Inclusive Teams for Success," where attendees can learn about common challenges faced in the workplace, as well as how employers can help. With seminars taking place in more than 25 different locations — ranging from Los Angeles to Singapore — there are plenty of opportunities to attend.

Support The Cause

March 8 may be International Women's Day, but the organization works toward gender parity all year long. Not only does IWD partner with a wide range of companies to fuel its efforts, but it also collects donations for two charities of choice: Catalyst and The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS). Learn more about those organizations and how to donate here.