Who Gets to Belong on Women’s Day?

Every March, Women’s Day rolls around and I can’t help but wonder: who is it really for? For some, it’s flowers, sweet wishes, maybe even a cheeky free drink voucher. But what about the people who don’t quite fit into the traditional box of “woman”?

That’s when I think of Hoa. We were in the same uni, though Hoa was a year above me. I always knew they were older, but I never once called them “sis” – just simply, Hoa.

With hair colour that changes every month and a septum piercing, Hoa always stands out and gets looks, whether they asked for it or not.

To be honest, the first time I saw Hoa, I didn’t know what to say or how to address them. Later, I learned Hoa identifies as non-binary* – someone whose gender identity doesn’t sit neatly within “male” or “female.” With their style and unapologetically queer presence, Hoa has always been one of the most memorable people around.

What I admire most is how Hoa carries themselves in work and life. They’ve thrown themselves into social projects, cultural initiatives, and spaces for young people and the LGBT+ community. And yet, they’ve never treated their identity as something to be hidden. As Hoa once told me:

“At work, I only talk about work. But outside of that, if people ask, I’m happy to answer. I actually enjoy it when colleagues are curious about queer culture and want me to share more.”

Still, every Women’s Day, the same teasing line pops up: “You’re non-binary, so is this day really for you?”  Hoa laughs it off, accepts the flowers and gifts with everyone else, and appreciates the gesture. But, as they admitted, the jokes do sometimes sting. When we spoke about it, Hoa said something that stayed with me:

“Even though I’m queer, I still feel connected to Women’s Day. I’ve lived through the experiences of being a woman. What makes a woman isn’t a body part. Maybe it’s time we rethink what ‘woman’ means. I like the word ‘womxn’ because it feels more inclusive. If you feel you are a woman, then you are.”

Not everyone will agree with Hoa, and that’s fine. But their words made me pause. Women’s Day isn’t just about the flowers and small gifts – it’s about the stories, struggles, and journeys that shape how people experience belonging.

So, who gets to belong on Women’s Day? Maybe more of us than we think.