International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day of celebrating the achievements of women – whether it be social, economic, cultural, or political. It also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity and is a chance not only to celebrate, but also educate and raise awareness, call for positive change, and push for gender parity. The event has taken place for well over a century, with the first being held in March 1911.
 

The theme for 2024 is ‘Inspire Inclusion’, highlighting that when we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women are included, this creates a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. To include women means doing so in an intersectional way, embracing women of all backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, abilities, religions, and sexualities.
 

Although IWD focuses on women, allyship is an integral part of it. Gender equality isn’t just a women’s issue, it is a human rights issue. Being an ally to women means listening to and acknowledging their lived experiences and engaging in conversations on these topics. 

IWD is held annually on 8 March and throughout the month, events, campaigns, and initiatives are organised to celebrate and educate.
 

In the run-up to International Women’s Day, the Inns of Court Alliance for Women (ICAW) will be holding an event to discuss the gender pay gap within the legal profession on 4 March at 18:00 at Lincoln’s Inn. Chaired by Barbara Mills KC, Head of Chambers at 4 Paper Buildings and Vice Chair of the Bar Council, the panel will include:
 

• Susanna McGibbon, Treasury Solicitor

• Sharon Blackman, General Counsel, Citibank

• Mark Rushton, Senior Clerk, Pump Court Tax Chambers

• Will Mackinlay, Chambers Director, South Square Chambers
 

Recently published data has shown that the gender pay gap is in fact widening rather than narrowing. The evening’s focus will be on hearing constructive and practical solutions from the panel, providing the benefit of learned experience from those organisations who have taken steps to tackle gender income gaps.
 

We encourage everyone to attend the event and join in the conversation. Please book a ticket and join us in working towards a fairer future.