How The Men In Our Lives Can Support Women

International Women’s Day was over the weekend. Women in our community celebrated in all kinds of ways…shopping at women-owned businesses, doing self-care, showing appreciation for other women in their lives, and donating to women’s charities.

When I was talking to my husband about the upcoming holiday, he asked me whether I felt like he did a good job supporting me and the other women in his life. It turned into a great conversation and got me thinking about what it really looks like to give women the support they need and deserve. So I did what I always do when I’m thinking hard about something—I asked all of you!

I got thousands of responses from women across the country, here are some of my favorites:

Treat Women With Respect

• “Build women up in any way possible. Whether it’s spending time with them. Supporting their business. Volunteering at a shelter for women. Listen to them and what they need.”
• “Embrace the women in your life, show them the utmost respect, extend your love, and consistently demonstrate kindness.”
• “Encourage them, support them, and be there for them no matter what.”
• “Give women the opportunity to speak their minds and tell their truths.”
• “Check-in on the women in your life. Send random messages letting them know they are special. When you know they are having a rough time give them a call, card, or message of encouragement.”

Stand Up For Women

• “Hire women and pay them fairly. Women are amazing. We need equal pay. Men are making more at the same job with the same experience, which is unfair.”
• “Support women on International Women’s Day by uplifting and celebrating the achievements of women, advocating for gender equality, and supporting women-owned businesses. Also, try to educate yourself and others on important issues affecting women and stand up against discrimination and injustice.”
• “Supporting women starts with active listening, advocating for equal opportunities, and challenging biases. Promote fair pay, mentorship, and leadership, while recognizing their contributions.”
• “Do not block any capable woman from succeeding, be inspired not intimidated! Show respect always. RESPECT and honor women.”

Chip In With The Housework

• “I think the best thing to do is give women more free time by helping them with the housework or other responsibilities that weigh them down.” 
• “Help with the housework without being asked to do so. Wash the dishes and put them away. Take out the trash without being forced to. Stuff like that is way more helpful than a box of candy or flowers that will just die! Just do the stuff you know you need to do without being asked to take that extra work off her plate.”
• “Try to be more understanding and see things from their perspective. Women are usually the ones making appointments, making store runs, cleaning up, prepping for meals, etc. It is a lot of work. So be there for her. Acknowledgment is a big sign of respect.” 

One submission really summed it up for me: “Ask women how they want to be supported and take action.” Women are all different, so the best way to know how to support them is to ask them!

If your son or husband asked “how could I support women?” what would you tell them? Let us know in the comments!