International Women’s Friendship Month
As summer gives way to autumn, September becomes a month not just of transition, but of celebration, specifically, a celebration of women’s friendship. International Women’s Friendship Month, observed each September, offers an opportunity to acknowledge, appreciate and nurture the bonds between women that enrich our lives in many ways.
Friendships among women hold a unique place in our social circles. These relationships provide essential emotional support, shared experiences, and a great understanding that can only come from those who have faced similar challenges. Women’s friendships can be particularly critical during times of stress, personal transformation, or loss. A friend can lend an empathetic ear or offer advice and encouragement.
Here are some thoughtful ways to honor this special month:
Reach out: Take time to reconnect with old friends by sending a text or making a phone call.
Create friendship traditions: Establish an annual tradition with your friends, be it a movie night, book club, or even a weekend getaway.
Support women-owned businesses: Use this month to celebrate and support women entrepreneurs.
Practice gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on the women in your life who influence and inspire you. Consider sending them a message of gratitude to let them know how much you appreciate their friendship.
Friendships provide joy, support and a sense of belonging. However, when people come from different cultures, their ways of thinking, behaving, and interacting might be different. Remember, domestic violence can affect anyone, but the way it appears may look different for different people. For individuals from diverse backgrounds, the difficulties of seeking support can be further worsened by societal norms, family expectations, and fear of stigma.
If you find yourself in a position to support a friend experiencing domestic violence, it’s crucial to approach the situation with understanding and respect for their cultural background.
Here are some effective ways to offer support to a friend from a different culture who may be experiencing domestic violence:
Educate yourself about their culture: Understanding your friend’s cultural background can provide you with important context regarding their situation.
Listen without judgement: The most crucial step in supporting a friend is providing a safe space for them to share their experiences.
Respect their decisions: Leaving an abusive relationship can be more complicated than it seems, especially when considering cultural pressures or familial obligations.
Create an action plan: Help them create an action plan tailored to their unique situation, respecting their wishes and cultural considerations.
Supporting a friend from a different culture experiencing domestic violence requires patience, compassion, and insight into their unique circumstances. Remember, cultural sensitivity is vital in this process and being there for them and encouraging them is the sincerest gift you can offer. Together, we can continue to foster a culture of friendship amongst women everywhere. Here’s to the friendships that fill our lives with joy, laughter, and the deep understanding that we are never alone on our journeys.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by domestic violence, we are here for you. Our 24-Hour Helpline is always available.
Call or text our 24-Hour Helpline: 216.391.4357 (HELP) or live chat.