In a world where the voices of women have often been silenced or overlooked, it’s perplexing to realize that despite the wealth of wisdom, inspiration, and unique perspectives they offer, there remains a startling absence of their quotes in our cultural narrative. This conspicuous gap not only reflects the historical sidelining of women but also highlights the need for a significant shift in our societal consciousness.
Women’s voices are indispensable in society, offering unique perspectives and insights that enrich our communities. Their influence touches every aspect of life, driving progress, promoting equity, and fostering a more compassionate world. Recognizing and valuing women’s voices is crucial for building a more diverse, just, and empathetic society. As said by Melinda Gates: “A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman.“
The inadequacy of quote presentation for women extends beyond collective memory, persisting on various platforms like Wikiquote. This underscores the significance of initiatives like the #SheSaid campaign which believes that the voices of remarkable women deserve their own spotlight. These extraordinary individuals have shattered glass ceilings, defied societal norms, and left an indelible mark on humanity.
A Resounding Success
Launched in October 2020, this campaign is powered by the Wiki Loves Women initiative by Wiki In Africa, aiming to enhance the representation of women on Wikiquote by adding and improving citations.
From the eloquent words of Maya Angelou to the fearless declarations of Malala Yousafzai, the drive isn’t solely about dreams; it’s about tangible impact. In the three previous editions of this initiative, we’ve achieved remarkable success. More than 7721 articles celebrating remarkable women have come to life in 11 different languages. Even so, it is not merely a collection of quotes; it stands as a testament to the extraordinary women who have defied the odds and shattered societal barriers. This campaign showcases their stories and achievements, serving as a reminder that the path to success is often paved with determination and resilience.
More than a campaign
#SheSaid is indeed much more than a campaign; it’s a vibrant community of individuals united by a common purpose. With each passing year, the drive continues to grow as diverse communities come together. This collaborative effort transcends language barriers, emphasizing the shared goal of celebrating and amplifying women’s voices.
One visible expression of this unity is the annual creation of bookmarks and postcards for conferences. These small yet meaningful tokens carry the essence of #SheSaid‘s mission to various gatherings, spreading inspiration and reminding attendees of the importance of recognizing women’s contributions. The act of creating and sharing these materials fosters a sense of connection and solidarity among participants, reinforcing the campaign’s impact beyond the digital realm. Together, this global community ensures that #SheSaid‘s message of empowerment and inclusivity continues to resonate far and wide. Create your first quote!
Success yes.. But…
The challenges faced by initiatives like #SheSaid are multifaceted. A significant obstacle is the limited historical documentation and references available for many women throughout history, making it challenging to validate their quotes. Moreover, recognizing that women’s contributions extend beyond famous quotes is crucial; their impact manifests in diverse ways. Additionally, the intersectionality of women’s experiences, influenced by various factors like background and culture, presents another layer of complexity. Despite progress, the ongoing effort to uncover, document, and celebrate women’s stories and wisdom remains essential, encompassing not only quotes but also the context and societal impact they represent.
#SheSaid 2023
As we transition from October, celebrated as Women’s History Month, Breast Health Month, Healthy Workplace Month, Community Inclusion Month, and LGBT History Month, to November, dedicated to Family Violence Prevention and National Community Safety and Crime Prevention, and finally into December, marked by significant observances such as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, the SheSaid campaign continues to thrive.
Running from October 1st to December 31st in 2023, this marks the campaign’s fourth consecutive year of celebrating the powerful voices of women. With each passing year, more communities and languages are joining this global movement, amplifying women’s contributions and inspiring positive change. SheSaid remains committed to fostering a world where women’s stories are valued, and their voices continue to shape our shared history.
How to get involved?
Getting involved with the SheSaid campaign is easy and impactful. Start by visiting the campaign’s meta page for information and updates, and visit Wikiquote and start adding quotes.
Don’t forget to follow our social media:
- Website: www.wikiloveswomen.org
- Twitter: @Wikiloveswomen
- Instagram: @WikiLovesWomen
- Facebook page: @WikiLovesWomen
- Facebook groupː Mind The Gender Gap group
- Telegram Groupː WikiGenderGap
#SheSaid.. Give Her A Voice!
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