Fingers in symphony

Shows to watch on International Women’s Day

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Tomorrow marks International Women’s Day, a day inundated with messages celebrating women’s achievements and resilience. Yet, amidst the cascade of empowering slogans and #, it’s crucial to recognize the harsh realities women continue to endure worldwide. By a UN estimate, globally one in three women have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their lifetime (and this is exclusive of sexual violence estimates). From such relentless onslaught of violence to the systemic suppression of our voices, the battle for gender equity persists ( and will continue to). However, amidst these challenges, there are moments of small wins and progress that deserve acknowledgment.

Media portrayal plays a pivotal role in shaping societal perceptions of women. For far too long, we’ve been confined to narrow stereotypes, depicted as either caricatures of villainy or relegated to the sidelines as mere accessories or backdrops in narratives dominated by men. Yet, amidst this profusion of skewed representation, there are shows that break the mold, offering a more authentic and layered depiction of our lived experiences.

Highlighting a handful of such shows that not only defy stereotypes but also celebrate the complexity and strength of women:

  1. Grace & Frankie: This endearing series follows the unlikely friendship between two women, Grace and Frankie, who find solace and strength in each other’s company after their husbands leave them for each other. Through their journey of rediscovery and reinvention, the show challenges ageist notions and celebrates the resilience of women in their golden years.
  2. The Bold Type: Workplace friendships, but make them supportive and non-toxic. Add a girl boss who is as beautiful as she is empowering(Love that glow up Jan). Set in the fast-paced world of a women’s magazine, this series revolves around the lives and careers of three young women navigating the complexities of love, friendship, and ambition. With a refreshing emphasis on supportive workplace dynamics and female empowerment, “The Bold Type” offers a refreshing take on millennial feminism.
  3. Working Moms: Juggling the demands of career and motherhood is no easy feat, and this Canadian sitcom fearlessly dives into the messy and chaotic reality of modern motherhood. Through its unapologetically honest portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of working mothers, the show offers a poignant and relatable narrative that resonates with women around the world.
  4. Killing Eve: This gripping thriller subverts traditional gender roles with its complex and enigmatic female characters. Centered around the cat-and-mouse game between a skilled assassin and the MI6 agent tasked with hunting her down, “Killing Eve” offers a tantalizing exploration of power, obsession, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
  5. Self Made: Based on the inspiring true story of America’s first self-made female millionaire, this miniseries chronicles the life and legacy of Madam C.J. Walker, a stereotype devouring entrepreneur who created a haircare company after a health issue left her with significant hair loss. She ended up dispelling numerous racial and gender barriers while building her haircare empire and also ended up inspiring thousands of women in the process. Through Walker’s remarkable journey, the show celebrates the indomitable spirit of female entrepreneurship and resilience.
  6. The Handmaid’s Tale: Based on the novel of the same name and written by one of my favorite authors, Margaret Atwood, this show is certainly not for the faint hearted. Set in a dystopian future where women are stripped of their rights and reduced to mere vessels for procreation, this chilling drama serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of women’s freedoms. Through its harrowing portrayal of oppression and resistance, it does intensify the need for global feminist movements to safeguard women’s rights.

These shows serve as a reminder that our stories are unique, complex, and deserving of recognition.

However, I know that there would be many more such shows centered on our perspectives and experiences and I need to watch more of those instead of the numerous reruns of Friends or The Office. That’s something I consciously strive to do this year, and also recommend to my friends, as well as, family.

Here’s to more such stories that feature women who defy expectations, challenge norms, and inspire us to strive for a more equitable world.