International Women’s Day: Celebrating Achievements and Advocating for Equality
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8th, is a global day to recognise and appreciate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It’s a day to stand together, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, language, culture, economic or political background, and celebrate the immense contributions women make to our world.
International Women’s Day
Beyond Celebration, a Call to Action
International Women’s Day is not just about celebration; it’s also a powerful call to action. It serves as a reminder that despite significant progress, gender inequality and discrimination still persist worldwide. The day highlights the ongoing fight for universal suffrage, equal rights, and opportunities for all women and girls.
A Historical Journey
The roots of International Women’s Day can be traced back to 1908 in the United States, where women factory workers in New York City went on strike to protest appalling working conditions. Throughout the early 20th century, similar demonstrations and celebrations of women’s rights took place on various dates across Europe. After World War II, March 8th gradually emerged as the International Women’s Day, gaining official recognition from the United Nations in 1975.
Global Recognition and Local Variations
While International Women’s Day may not be a national holiday in every country, it is celebrated with warmth in over 100 countries worldwide. Notably, it is a national holiday in almost 30 countries, primarily in Eastern Europe and Africa. Interestingly, in many Eastern European countries, International Women’s Day coincides with Mother’s Day, further emphasising the importance of women in society.
Stay Informed and Get Involved
To learn more about International Women’s Day and participate in the global movement for gender equality, you can visit the following websites:
- https://www.internationalwomensday.com Stay updated on the annual theme and find events happening near you to celebrate March 8th.
- https://www.un.org/womenwatch/feature/iwd/iwdarchives.html#:~:text=For%20the%20United%20Nations%2C%20International,message%20from%20the%20Secretary%2DGeneral. Access information about the current year’s campaign and delve deeper into the rich history of this significant day.
