Honoring International Women’s Day

March 13, 2025

On this International Women’s Day, and every day, we recognize the women who’ve fought for equality, who have broken down barriers, and who have helped expand access to resources and care for all people. International Women’s Day takes place every year on March 8th, and serves as an opportunity to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world. This year, International Women’s Day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality, with their theme #AccelerateAction.

For over a century, Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest (PPPSW) has committed to building a world where sexual and reproductive rights are basic human rights, where access to health care doesn’t depend on who you are or where you live, and where every person has the opportunity to choose their own path to a healthy and meaningful life. Planned Parenthood Action Fund of the Pacific Southwest has also been a part of this movement to advocate fiercely for reproductive health care and rights. Our mission is clear: ensure all people have access to the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health and futures.

The Powerful History of International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality. What began over a century ago has grown into a worldwide movement, uniting millions in the fight for progress. This day serves as a powerful reminder of how much work remains to ensure equity for all.

At Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, we know that gender parity cannot be achieved until all people – regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, abilities, immigration status, insurance status or place of residence – have access to the expert, compassionate sexual and reproductive health care, information, and education they need, when they need it.

Today, PPPSW operates 19 health centers across San Diego, Riverside, and Imperial counties, as part of a nationwide network of more than 600 centers. We provide a full range of sexual and reproductive health services, including birth control, cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, abortion, and gender-affirming care.

But our impact isn’t just measured in numbers-it’s seen in the lives of the people we serve.

Embracing “Accelerate Action”

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” is a call to urgency. At the current pace, gender equality won’t be achieved until 2158-but we refuse to wait. At PPPSW, we’re committed to driving change by:

  • Providing Care Without Judgment: Every woman and person deserves compassionate, high-quality care, regardless of their background or identity.
  • Knowledge is Power: We equip Planned Parenthood patients with essential health education to make informed choices about their well-being.
  • Uplifting Women Everywhere: From our dedicated staff to the patients we serve, we are committed to supporting women and advocating for reproductive freedom for all..

Join Us in Making a Difference

As we celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we invite you to be part of this movement. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or joining our team, your voice and actions matter. Together, we can build a future where every woman has the freedom and opportunity to live life on her own terms.

Explore PPPSW’s culture and career opportunities at pppswcareers.org.

Did you know that PPPSW specializes in gynecology and offers a wide range of services? For more details and a full list of our services, visit: Gynecological Services | Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, Inc.

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