All across the world, International Women’s Day was celebrated on the 8th of March for the economic, political and social achievements of women. In the midst of all the celebrations, we should remember the decades of struggle for equality and justice that women all around the world have undergone to participate on an equal footing with men in society-to be able to vote, be able to work, hold public office, end gender based discrimination.

While the new millennium has witnessed a significant shift in both women’s and society’s thoughts about women’s equality, we should remember that even today the struggle for equality continues. Female infanticide is a frightening reality in too many parts of the world. Baby girls are being intentionally killed because of society’s preference for male babies, and because of the low value associated with the birth of a girl-child. This is a real concern in many countries including India and China (Gendercide Watch).

The struggle continues all around the world when it comes to access to education. Millions of girls are being denied the possibility of continuing secondary education because of the belief that girl’s education is not highly beneficial to the family; that their work is less likely to bring in income. In reality, a 1% growth in female secondary schooling results in 0.3% growth in the economy (UN Cyberschoolbus).

In our own lives, I am sure we have all seen or heard anecdotal stories about girls who were not given the access to education, who were not allowed to complete their college education and instead were married off early. An often repeated statement: “Ar porashuna kore ki hobe, meyer biyer boyesh hoye geche, biye dite hobe.” (What’s the point of further education? She has reached a marriageable age and needs to be married).

Many people still continue to believe that it is not possible for women to succeed equally in their personal and professional lives, as if opting for higher education and wishing to pursue a career would come at the cost of one’s personal life.

In my life, my mother has always been a shining example of an empowered woman both in her personal and professional lives. In the post-Liberation War era, despite being one of a family of twelve in a rural part of Bangladesh, my mother pushed herself to excel personally and professionally. Coming from a generation where it was still the norm for women to stay at home after their marriages or perhaps have a part time job but not a career, her professional success is an achievement indeed. My mother has shown me that life is not about choices, it is not about choosing one’s personal life or professional life, but about exploring one’s potential to the fullest. By example, she has taught me to broaden my horizons and reach for the stars.

People tell me time and time again, that it is not possible to have a fulfilling career and a family life at the same time, that there are sacrifices involved. And my retort always is, why can’t I have both, if my mother can do so, why can’t I?

In our generation we have seen the dawning of a new century in the Gregorian as well as the Bengali calendar. There are countless inspiring women out there who are working relentlessly to protect and uphold the rights of women in the public and private spheres, so shouldn’t we continue to do so in our own lives? I do agree that there is a balancing act when it comes to having a career and a family life, but I believe that it is possible for a woman to be fulfilled in both. For me, the question of choices or sacrifices does not arise.

We as women should be free to pursue whatever dream we wish to pursue. Each and every one of us should be an agent of change, leading fulfilled lives and encouraging other around us to do the same.