International Women’s Day 2026 gives us a chance to pause and think about what real progress looks like in our communities. This year’s theme, Give to Gain, speaks to something simple but powerful. When women support each other, share experiences, and create space for one another, everyone benefits.
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend an International Women’s Day event organised by Bradford Council at the Palace of Westminster. Standing in Parliament to speak about women’s voices was both inspiring and humbling. It was a reminder that conversations taking place in our communities also deserve space in national discussions.
During the event, I spoke about how hate crime connects closely with violence against women and girls. Many women experience hostility or abuse linked to their identity, faith, race, or background. These experiences are often overlooked or normalised, yet they form part of a wider pattern of harm that affects women’s safety, confidence, and participation in society.
At BHCA, we see how important it is for women to have spaces where they feel safe to talk about these experiences. When women share their stories, others often realise they are not alone. That moment of recognition can build confidence and encourage people to seek support or speak out. This is where the spirit of Give to Gain really shows itself.
Give to Gain is not about big gestures. It is about everyday actions. Listening without judgement. Sharing knowledge. Encouraging someone else to step forward. Creating spaces where women feel heard. These things may seem small, but together they help build stronger and more connected communities.
Marking International Women’s Day also reminds us that many women still face barriers. Some are visible and others are not, but they shape people’s experiences every day. Taking time to reflect on these issues helps keep the conversation moving and pushes us to keep doing the work that supports women across our communities.
If you would like to hear more about the discussion from Parliament, the video from the event is available on our YouTube page. It captures the conversation around women’s voices and why tackling hate crime forms part of the wider effort to address violence against women and girls.
As we mark International Women’s Day this year, the message is simple. Keep supporting each other. Keep creating spaces where women can speak and be heard. Because when support is shared, progress follows. 
