International Women’s Day 2025: Accelerating Action with NABU

For over a century, International Women’s Day (IWD) has been a powerful movement for change, honoring the achievements of women while advocating for a more just and equitable world. What began in 1908 with women in the United States demanding better working conditions and voting rights has since evolved into a global day of action. Every March 8, we celebrate progress while recognizing the challenges that still exist and the urgent need to accelerate change.

This year’s theme, "Accelerate Action," serves as a call to break down systemic barriers that continue to hold women and girls back. The United Nations estimates that at the current rate, full gender equality won’t be achieved until 2158 - over five generations from now. We cannot afford to wait. The time to act is now.

Why International Women’s Day Matters & What We Can Do

IWD is about both celebration and action - honoring the progress women have made while pushing for faster, bolder steps to close the gender gap. This means:

• Breaking systemic barriers : Ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls, particularly in education, healthcare, and the workforce.
• Investing in girls' education : Education empowers girls to break cycles of poverty, build careers, and shape their futures.
• Amplifying women’s leadership : Women must have equal representation in decision-making spaces to create lasting change.
• Supporting gender equality initiatives : Whether through advocacy, donations, or mentorship, everyone can play a role in advancing equality.

NABUs Commitment to Empowering Girls Through Literacy

At NABU, we believe literacy is a catalyst for change especially for young girls. When a girl can read in her mother tongue, she is more likely to stay in school, gain confidence, and create opportunities for herself and her community. Education is not just a tool for learning; it’s a gateway to freedom, independence, and self-determination.

Did you know that 62.5% of NABU’s team are women? These incredible leaders drive our literacy programs, create impactful educational content, and ensure that children everywhere have access to culturally relevant books in their native language. Their dedication is shaping a future where every child, especially girls, has the power to dream, learn, and succeed.

Join Us Join Us in Accelerating Action for Girls

This International Women’s Day, you can be part of the movement to empower girls through literacy and education. Here’s how:

1. Support our mission – Your donations help provide free books in native languages for children worldwide.

2. Volunteer with NABU – Join us in expanding literacy programs and making books more accessible.

3. Raise awareness – Use #AccelerateAction to spread the message about the power of education in changing lives.

Together, we can create a future where every girl has the opportunity to thrive. Join us today because when we accelerate action, we change the world.