Reflections on International Women’s Day 2025

Newsroom staff recently sat down with Elder David C. Stewart, and his wife, Sister Karri Stewart. Elder Stewart was named a member of the Sixth Quorum of the Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the April 2020 general conference. He now serves in the Tenth Quorum and is responsible for the North America Central Area, Calgary and Lethbridge co-ordinating councils. The Stewarts were invited to share their thoughts about International Women’s Day.

What comes to your mind when celebrating International Women’s Day?

Sister Stewart: International Women’s Day recognizes the importance of women all around the world in every land, nation and culture. It is fantastic that a day is designated to recognize the power, strength, abilities and fortitude of women. It shows the influence and effect of women in many areas of our lives and is a sentiment that should be celebrated every day.

Elder Stewart: When I think about International Women’s Day, I initially think of my own mother. She was the greatest influence on me for many years. I watched her learn to do new things as we moved to a farm, and she had to figure out how to fix things and make things work. She was able to teach and encourage me but also challenged me, as appropriate. I watched her learn from other women in her sphere of influence — her sister, mother, mother-in-law and many friends. This community of women was valuable to her, and so it was also valuable to me.

International Women’s Day is celebrating 50 years since the United Nations adopted it as an official, worldwide celebration of women’s rights and world peace. What do you think has been accomplished in the past 50 years?

Sister Stewart: There is an increased recognition of the various roles women can play in the workplace, community and home. I have seen growth in the confidence of women to be part of different organizations, act as resources and be key opinion leaders. There has been a recognition of the power that a woman’s perspective can lend to a council, committee or any gathering.

Elder Stewart: Our sister leaders in the Relief Society, Young Women and Primary general presidencies, with their varied backgrounds and personal situations, provide incredible examples of how to lead and guide. Their voices are valued on Church councils and beyond. Their examples have helped women who are called by priesthood authority in branches, and stakes to recognize their abilities to stand up and help lead with power and direction. President Russell M. Nelson said, “My dear sisters, whatever your calling, whatever your circumstances, we need your impressions, your insights, and your inspiration. We need you to speak up and speak out in ward and stake councils. … We brethren cannot duplicate your unique influence” (“A Plea to My Sisters,” October 2015 general conference).

Elder and Sister Stewart: Women can help the world as a whole feel spiritually connected, and they have a special ability to be a conduit to heaven. We love the following quote by President Nelson and display it on our fridge as a reminder of the opportunities women have because of their innate gifts: “We need women who know how to make important things happen by their faith and who are courageous defenders of morality and families” (“A Plea to My Sisters”).

The Government of Canada’s theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is “Strength in Every Story.” Can you share a story of a woman who inspires you?

Sister Stewart: I love the idea that there is strength in every story. Each of us has a different story, but all of them are intertwined, making a beautiful encyclopedia of life experiences that can be for our benefit. There are so many women who inspire me daily. I see young moms at the playground playing and encouraging their children. I know from experience that their lack of sleep is real, and yet they are doing their best. I see single moms striving to provide all the necessities of life and also be all the roles for their children. I see women as students doing their best to become educated and make a difference in this world. I see older women who have accomplished so much in their lives and now experience more quiet than they would like. I see hardworking, diligent women in business or working for other organizations that also benefit our world as a whole. Each of these women is powerful and inspiring. Taking time to see and understand each one of them is worthwhile.

Elder Stewart: I watched my grandmother complete her education degree after age 65, and then Karri achieved her degree 25-plus years after starting it. It was important for both to receive their degrees. They both walked across the stage as they received their formal degrees, but it was also very symbolic to me of determination and consistent effort over time.

Sister Stewart: I am a big believer in the importance of education and how that can empower and inspire confidence. Education can be gained in a formal setting, such as a classroom, or through experiences like reading a book or watching a documentary. As an adult, I went back to school a few years ago to finish a degree that I had started many years previously. With each course, exam and assignment, I gained a better understanding of myself and my potential. Gaining that education altered my story and helped me feel more able to support and encourage others. Women everywhere can benefit from an education and the knowledge that comes from it.

The International Women’s Day website says the day “belongs to all who care about women’s equality.” How might Latter-day Saints — both young and old, male and female — mark the day?

Sister Stewart: I recently heard that the best way to improve the world is to start by helping your mom (or dad) do the dishes — and I love that idea. It reminds me that change begins at home, with small acts of kindness. We can apply that same principle today by recognizing the women around us who have made a difference and letting them know they are seen. A simple compliment or act of support can go a long way. Vocal cheerleading is influential and needed. There is so much goodness happening right around us that often goes unnoticed, and the best way to celebrate women internationally is to start within our own circles.

Elder Stewart: I’d recommend finding two women — one that may be obvious to you and a second that is less obvious. Let them know how much they mean to you. Both are tremendously important. An honest compliment is very meaningful and very empowering.