International Women's Day

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International Women's Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 to commemorate the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women's achievements or rally for women's equality.

History

The earliest observance of a Women's Day was held on February 28, 1909, in New York City, organized by the Socialist Party of America in honor of the 1908 garment workers' strike in New York. The 1910 International Socialist Women's Conference suggested a Women's Day be held annually. After women gained suffrage in Soviet Russia in 1917, March 8 became a national holiday there. The day was predominantly celebrated by the socialist movement and communist countries until it was adopted by the feminist movement in about 1967. The United Nations began celebrating the day in 1977.

Themes

Each year, International Women's Day adopts a new theme to highlight specific issues affecting women globally. Themes have included topics such as gender equality, violence against women, and women's health.

Celebrations

International Women's Day is celebrated in various ways worldwide. It is a public holiday in some countries, while in others, it is a day of protest or a day to celebrate womanhood. Events include rallies, conferences, performances, and marches. The day is also marked by educational activities and campaigns to raise awareness about women's rights and gender equality.

Significance

International Women's Day is significant as it highlights the progress made towards achieving gender equality and the work that still needs to be done. It serves as a reminder of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and the ongoing struggle for gender parity.

Related Pages

• Women's rights
• Gender equality
• Feminism
• Women's suffrage
• United Nations
• Socialist Party of America
• International Socialist Women's Conference
• Violence against women
• Women's health

See Also

• Women's History Month
• Equal Pay Day
• Mother's Day
• Women's March