Let's Celebrate International Women's Day!

By Wendy Crawford

Today marks International Women’s Day, the day to celebrate women around the globe. As I sit here at my computer, I cannot help but reflect on the great strides that women of all ethnicities, ages and abilities have made.

I joined this community over 33 years ago when my vehicle was rear ended by a driver who had been drinking. I did NOT want to be a “woman with a disability”. How will people view me?  Will they pity me? Will I be considered less than? Can I still be productive member of society? These were only a few of the destructive thoughts and preconceived notions that filled my head as I lay, in my hospital bed.

I carried this heavy burden for several years until I began to spend more time with other women who used wheelchairs.  I was in awe of the strength, their perseverance and their ability to power over the seemingly unsurmountable obstacles that life had thrown, in their path.  I learned of their accomplishments and suddenly, there was a little, tiny sprout that pushed through the dark, multiple layers of negativity that said “I’m still me. I’m still the same person. Maybe I can do this.”   

We at mobileWOMEN, want to take this opportunity to applaud each and every one of you. We feel pride, being able to feature outstanding women, like yourselves, on our site. We are extremely grateful for all of our contributors, sharing their journeys, knowledge, experiences and perspectives. There is a common, undeniable bond and sense of unity, no matter where you live or what you do, that is indestructible. Bravo to all you trailblazers, mothers, professionals, students, athletes, community leaders, volunteers, wives  and friends; you are not just surviving, you are thriving warriors, forging a better world, for the next generation!

Quote by Mother Teresa

Right now, we are living in a stimulating time, where women (and men) are finding their voice and demanding equality, justice and diversity, on every front. We encourage you to embrace this pivotal moment in history, own your power, find your passion and soar! How will you #PressforProgress? Let’s support one another in this journey of growth and empowerment.

I am SO PROUD to be part of this sisterhood of powerful, confident , kick-ass women, who are more than – thank you for all that you do!

Here’s a message from an unstoppable, tireless, advocate, Susan Sygall, CEO and Co-founder of Mobility International USA, who has made a tremendous global impact, advancing disability rights and leadership, since 1981:

"All around the world, women with disabilities are making bold changes and demanding their rights. They demand to have leadership roles in their communities, in their countries, and on a global scale. Over 20 years ago, many of us disabled women from many different countries were in Beijing for the women's conference, and we have seen some of the progress that we've made since."  ~ Susan Sygall
Watch an #InternationalWomensDay video message from Susan, as she encourages activists around the world, to dream big and shares a dream of her own.