Women’s Equality Day: Celebrating Progress, Acknowledging Challenges, and Pushing Forward

By Sarah Garnica

Women’s Equality Day is upon us this week, a time to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. Women’s Equality Day, celebrated on August 26, was first proclaimed by Congress in 1971, it was introduced by Representative of New York Bella Abzug, to commemorate the 1920 adoption of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the United States.

As we celebrate the groundbreaking achievement of the first Woman of Color being nominated for President by the DNC, we are reminded of the power of breaking barriers and the significance of representation. Alongside this historic moment, we also observe 51 years since Billie Jean King’s iconic 1973 victory over Bobby Riggs at the US Open, where she fought for and secured equal prize money for women. As someone who grew up playing sports and admiring female athletes, I find it deeply significant to see organizations ensuring equal prize money. Playing in sports as a woman is just as challenging as it is for men, so there should be no justification for unequal compensation. Attending the US Open for the third year in a row and cheering for these incredible women as they compete for the equal prize money they deserve makes my support for them even more meaningful.

In a new study conducted by Horowitz Research, State of Media, Entertainment, and Tech: Social, Cultural & Political Shifts 2024, more than half (53%) of adult consumers report that a company’s public support for a woman’s right to choose has a positive influence on their purchasing decisions. This demonstrates that as organizations align their values with the broader fight for equality, they contribute to social progress and build stronger connections with their customers. By supporting these values, companies are not just participating in a movement—they are helping to shape a future where equality is the standard, not the exception.

Yet, as we celebrate these victories, we cannot ignore the unprecedented attacks on women’s rights in this country, particularly regarding reproductive health and autonomy. Attitudes towards women’s rights have grown increasingly polarized, especially as we approach the upcoming presidential election, with Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President and a 2024 presidential candidate, playing a significant role as a strong advocate for women’s rights. Highlighting the significance of this moment, 63% of adults believe women should have the right to decide what’s best for them when it comes to reproduction, including birth control and abortion. This sentiment reflects a broader concern, as more than half (54%) of consumers are worried about new laws surrounding contraception. These statistics underscore the importance of continuing the fight for women’s autonomy in all aspects of life.

These ongoing challenges and the cultural shifts they reflect serve as a powerful reminder that the fight for gender equality is far from over. A recent example is the cultural phenomenon sparked by the “Barbie” movie. This film, which was more than being just a history lesson on Barbie dolls, sparked a movement among women, girls, and even men, emphasizing both the progress made and the persistent stereotypes. The “Barbie” movie highlighted both victories and ongoing challenges that women face. This cultural movement reminds us that while strides have been made, significant work remains to achieve true gender parity.

As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day, let us not only honor past victories but also commit to the ongoing fight for true gender equality. Every effort counts—whether it’s supporting female athletes at the US Open, advocating for reproductive rights, or choosing to buy from companies that stand for women’s rights. Equality is the standard, not the exception.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Garnica is a Marketing Associate at Horowitz Research, driven by her passion for understanding market trends. She thrives on connecting brands with consumers and is dedicated to giving voices to those who are often overlooked, ensuring diverse perspectives are heard and valued.