Celebrated on February 11th each year, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science aims to promote gender equality in STEM fields and encourage more women and girls to pursue careers in science and technology.
2024 is its 9th year, and the theme is Women and Girls in Science Leadership, a New Era for Sustainability, with a subtheme of “Think Science…Think Peace.” The theme recognizes the role of women and girls in science as agents of change and accelerators of progress.
On February 8th and 9th, the U.N. will bring together women in science leaders and experts from around the world, high-level government officials, representatives of international organizations, and the private sector to discuss women’s leadership in achieving the three pillars of Sustainable Development, namely economic prosperity, social justice, and environmental integrity.
The primary objectives of International Day of Women and Girls in Science include:
- Promoting Gender Equality: The day emphasizes the importance of achieving gender equality in STEM disciplines, encouraging equal opportunities for women and girls in scientific education and careers.
- Highlighting Achievements: It celebrates the accomplishments and innovations of women scientists, showcasing their contributions to research, technology, and scientific advancements.
- Inspiring Future Generations: International Day of Women and Girls in Science serves as an inspiration for young girls and students to pursue studies and careers in STEM fields, challenging stereotypes and biases.
- Advocating for Inclusion: The day calls for greater inclusion of women in decision-making processes and leadership roles within the scientific community.
Join the Movement
If you or someone you know is doing great things in science in and around Rhode Island, let us know by emailing carolmalysz@ri-bio.org. We’re already starting on next year’s video!
BACKGROUND
On 22 December 2015, the General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish an annual International Day to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science and technology communities. In welcoming the efforts of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and other relevant organizations that support and promote the access of women and girls and their participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, training and research activities at all levels decided to proclaim 11 February of each year the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
February 11 was chosen to honor the birthday of Marie Curie, a pioneering physicist and chemist who made groundbreaking contributions to the fields of radioactivity and nuclear physics. Marie Curie remains an inspirational figure for women in science.