Hello Friend,
International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the achievements of women, raising awareness against bias, and taking action for equality.
This year theme, #BreakTheBias, envisions a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Interview with Britta Badour
Dear Young Woman” is a poem of empowerment by Toronto based spoken word poet, Britta Badour.
What does International Women's Day mean to you?
IWD is a day of women and trans-women empowerment! It's a reminder to recognize the women who have shaped you and made an impact on your journey. It's also an open invitation for all women to give thanks and shout out to the people, communities, and spaces that work to make them feel safe, visible, and celebrated as the woman they are. 
What inspired you to create this poem?
There are many women in my life of all generations that inspire me beyond measure. I wanted to write something that would honour the many sides of their presence and personalities. I couldn't be more grateful for the friendships and family bonds I have to women. These women protect me, encourage me, and teach me to value my selfhood as a woman. 
How has being a women of colour shaped your experience in society?
There have been times when I have been the minority -- the only Black person in the room, on the panel, in the showcase, etc.. I've felt ostracized or tokenized, even misjudged because of my gender and because of my race. It's meant that people don't take me seriously, cramp my vibe, or flat out try to take advantage of me. I think my experiences as a Black woman have made me more observant of the power of using my voice to draw attention to the nuances of violence while also encountering self-affirmation by expressing my truth. 
What is one piece of advice you'd give to other young women?
You are worthy because you are alive. 
Who is a strong female role model that you look up to/admire?
The mothers of my parents: my Nanny, my Grandma, my Baba (in-law). They have all played a caring, encouraging, and protective role in my life. I always wanted to be my Grandma's favourite because she was the most respected, the strongest voice, the final word on my dad's side of the family. I cherish my Nanny's devotion to her faith and the many letters she has handwritten to me. Baba is the fiercest woman in the world; she is psychic, witty, and highly adored by everyone who meets her. I think I have a spiritual connection to my poetry and it's with great thanks to my grandmothers.
What can men do to help to achieve equality and empower women?
Challenge bias and gender stereotypes. Give up space. Recognize that women's rights are human rights.  
Feminist Books That Will Inspire, Enrage, and Educate You
We Should All Be Feminists
Resilience Is Futile
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