International Women's Day has been observed since the 1900s, a time when there were turbulent changes in society and the rise of radical ideologies. A collective day of global celebration and unity, a call for gender equality. Although are progress from then to now is amazing, it's sad to know that over 100 years later women are still effectively controlled by patriarchy and the fact that they're a woman not a man!

I think that this IWD is different to previous years, simply because Donald Trump is the President of the United States. Remember when he said Clinton was disgusting for going the bathroom, if women choose to fight for their country sexual assault should basically be expected, how about the fact it's all good to rank women by looks. These are just a few of many and perhaps the one that angered women the most was the fact that if we have an abortion we should be punished. I don't really want to go on one big rant but a woman's body is her own and whatever reason she may have an abortion for is her own personal business.

On a positive note, women have shown such strength. January saw the Women's March, I only wish I could've been apart of one; it was humbling to see all of the support given to women and men marching all over the world. After all our place is in the resistance, fighting for our rights and it has been for such a long time!

I class myself as a feminist, I completely support the concept of feminism- the advocacy of women's rights on the ground of equality of the sexes. However, it's hard to define and all we can do is keep learning about it to develop our understanding. Feminism is about liberation, choice, freedom, equality- feminism is different for everyone but women should support each other.

A lot of women inspire me to be a feminist, to be proud and to strive until I get wherever I need to. Tanya Burr, Lea Michele, the PLL girls (Troian, Lucy, Ash, Shay), Adele are just a few but they're all celebs, in terms of real people one person stands out to me. Our Sal, the best English teacher you could ask for, a role model and inspiration! Sal introduced me to poetry, plays and feminism- I wouldn't be as passionate about women's rights today if it wasn't for her. Lauren would agree with me, she's all about politics and it's been a pleasure to see her motivation for all things women evolve in these past two years.

Whether you're a feminist, a supporter or not. Surely it's common knowledge that equality is necessary, whether someone is male, female, gay, straight, bisexual, black or white because we're all human. The fight isn't about who's 'winning' or who's gained the most power, it's about equality. WE ARE ALL EQUAL, LET'S FIGHT!