The International Women’s Day (IWD), marked annually on March 8 around the world, is a constant reminder of the need for a gender-fair world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination against women.
Discrimination against women dates back centuries, including the biblical example of the daughters of Zelophehad in Numbers 27:1–5, who were to be denied property inheritance because their father had no son.
They appealed to Moses to grant them property among their father’s relatives. Moses took their case to the Lord, and the Lord said: “What Zelophehad’s daughters are saying is right.” As a result, the Israelites’ inheritance law, which traditionally did not allow women to inherit property, was amended because of their request, and other women in similar circumstances benefited from it.
The theme of the 2026 celebration, “Give to Gain,” according to its promoters, encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. “Give to Gain” emphasizes the power of reciprocity and support.
When people, organizations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction; it is intentional multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise.
As Christian journalists, our contribution to advancing gender justice and equity, in line with this year’s theme, should include reporting the activities of organizations championing women’s rights so they can attract the support they need.
For women in the media and others in various fields of endeavour to continue to thrive and maximize their potential, we must advocate respect for their rights, provide them with the necessary opportunities and support to excel, and protect them from any form of abuse.
When we give this support, what we gain is a stronger, fairer, and more impactful media profession.
Proverbs 31:8–9 reminds us to “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,” while Philippians 2:4 urges us: “Let each of you look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
As journalists committed to truth and justice, let us use our voices, platforms, and influence to ensure that women are heard, respected, and empowered—because when women thrive, journalism itself becomes stronger.
The WORD is a weekly devotional publication of Journalists for Christ International Outreach. www.journalistsforchrist.org
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