By now, International Women’s Day (IWD) tributes are flowing in from far and wide, showering women in applause and affection. It is a worthy cause, and we should be carving out space to celebrate the successes of women – of which there are many. Happening on March 8, the theme of this year’s IWD is ‘Inspire Inclusion’, challenging us all to call out poor practices when women are discriminated against and to take action when the treatment of women is not equitable.
At its core, IWD is about striving for women’s advancement and raising other women, so why not use the day to show your support for female-focused charities? Whether it’s gender inequality as well as access to healthcare and the legal system, meeting the basic needs and rights of women should be one’s priority.
Whether you are able to donate financially (on a one-off or regular basis) or lend your voice to raising awareness of their work, here are 6 charities to support this IWD.
Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO)
WAO is a leading advocate for ending violence against women and advancing gender equality in Malaysia. Founded in 1982, their mission is to promote women’s rights, worth and dignity, ultimately eradicating violence against women. They actively raise awareness and challenge societal norms through exhibitions, campaigns and community training. WAO also offers shelter to over 100 women and children annually, ensuring a safe refuge for those fleeing abusive homes.
To donate, click here.
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
Created in 1969, UNFPA helps to bridge social and developmental gaps when it comes to areas of gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights, healthy aging, youth empowerment, maternal health, family planning and the uplifting of vulnerable populations. In addition, they have been working with the Malaysian government to attain vision and equity.
To donate, click here.
All Women’s Action Society (AWAM)
AWAM is an independent feminist non-profit charity established in 1985. They seek to achieve a women-inclusive society by building a movement that informs and connects towards securing women’s rights and bringing about gender equality, building capacities for women’s empowerment and social transformation and supporting women in crisis.
To donate, click here.
Women’s Centre for Change (WCC)
Dedicated to assisting women and children of all races, religions and social backgrounds facing a crisis, WCC provides counseling, legal advice, shelter, volunteering, donations and impactable information and stories of women and children that they’ve helped. They want to give an equal voice and make women and children safe and free from violence and economic justice.
To donate, click here.
Tenaganita
Tenaganita came in 1991 as an organisation born out of the struggles of women and migrant workers in Malaysia. They have been standing and fighting alongside all women, migrants and refugees to advocate and protect their rights as workers and individuals from exploitation, abuse, discrimination, slavery and human trafficking.
To donate, click here.
Sisters in Islam (SIS)
Founded in 1988, SIS is a non-governmental charity working to advance Muslim women’s rights in Malaysia. Their initiatives include promoting the principles of gender equality, justice, freedom and dignity in Islam and empowering women to advocate for change. Additionally, they provide free legal advisory services to women and men on their legal rights under the Islamic Family Law and the Syari’ah Criminal Offences Law.
To donate, click here.
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