Learning Points: Men must be allies on International Women's Day

"It’s easy when you grow up with male siblings to think equality is there for all. It’s easy to think, ‘women have never had it so good, so what are they complaining about?’ But..."

Richard Hogan: Next week is International Women’s Day. A day where we celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Through the centuries women have had to fight to have their voices heard. They have had to struggle to overcome the inherent bias in society. It wasn’t so long ago that the marriage bar was a very real thing for women in this country.

Next week is International Women’s Day. A day where we celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Through the centuries women have had to fight to have their voices heard. They have had to struggle to overcome the inherent bias in society. It wasn’t so long ago that the marriage bar was a very real thing for women in this country. 

So, celebrating great women who have made significant strides for equality is an important day on the calendar. I was lucky enough to be raised by two beautiful, strong women. They taught me so much, and now I’m even luckier to be the proud father of three incredible young girls. They have certainly turned me into a feminist of sorts. It’s an on-going joke in the house, my daughter’s bedroom has a warning on the door, ‘no boys allowed, except for dad!’ I’m an honouree girl. One of my greatest achievements.