This Month Hits Differently

March 4, 2025

As we celebrate Women's History Month with this year's theme—Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations—we recognize the resilience and progress of those who have fought to expand rights, challenge barriers and create a more inclusive future through education, mentorship and leadership. The month hits differently this year as we must acknowledge that women's rights are equally under attack and being used as a disguise for discrimination against other identities.

By distorting the language of inclusion, executive order 14168 - Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government - uses women's rights to instruct federal agencies to recognize only two sexes, male and female eliminating gender identity, gender expression, or the existence of transgender, gender-nonconforming, or non-binary persons. This is a blatant misuse of the intention of those who have championed true women's rights.

Coincidentally, BRIDGE's Project FORWARD initiative aligns closely with this month's theme ensuring that we pave the way forward delivering on DEI's promise of inclusion and equity for all.

As we call the industry to action and to stay steadfast with their efforts, on March 8, we celebrate International Women's Day - For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment - unlocking equal rights, power and opportunities for all where no one is left behind. Central to this vision is empowering the next generation particularly young women and adolescent girls as catalysts for lasting change.

It is our collective responsibility to stand up to those pushing for anything less than this vision of an inclusive future. It's critical for a thriving society, workplace productivity and innovation and growth!

Join me on LinkedIn to further unpack the implications and explore tangible actions we can take as business leaders, allies, and advocates.

Forward,

SD
founder & CEO
BRIDGE