All About International Women’s Day: Origin, History, & Significance

International Women’s Day is celebrated all over globe on March 8. The day celebrates the accomplishments, contributions, and strength of women every year. The day has been dedicated to honour women’s social, cultural, economic, political, and several other achievements apart from raising awareness about gender equality and women’s right. Over the years, women’s day has emerged both a celebration and a wake-up call for building a more inclusive and fair society.  

Origin of Women’s Day

When it comes to the origin of women’s day, it can be traced back to early 20^th century during the period of industrialisation. Scores of women garment workers had assembled in New York in 1908 to stage protest against bad working conditions, poor wages, and lack of voting rights. The movement led to broader discussion about women’s labour rights and right to equality. 

In 1910, German activist Clara Zetkin coined the idea of an International Women’s Day at the International Socialist Women’s conference that was held in Copenhagen. The idea was unanimously approved and the first official Women’s Day was celebrated in the year 1911 in many nations such as Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, among others. In the very beginning, the emphasis was on women’s rights to work, vote, and hold public office. 

Finally, March 8 was recognised as the official date to celebrate women’s day after scores of women in Russia held a strike on that day in 1917 seeking “bread and peace” during World War I. The women-led protest played a massive role in political change and with time, March 8 was formally recognised and adopted all over the globe as International Women’s Day.  

Meanwhile, United Nations officially adopted and recognised International Women’s Day in 1975 further cementing it global relevance and importance.

Why Women’s Day Is Celebrated?

International Women’s Day is celebrated to acknowledge the progress made in advancing women’s rights and highlights the challenges that continue to exist. However, women have accomplished huge milestones in various fields ranging from politics, business, and education, gender inequality continues to prevail in various parts of the globe.

Women’s Day serves as strong reminder that equal opportunities, equal pay, and safety are significant for a just society. The day also celebrates the courage, resolve, determination of women who broke major barriers and inspired changes in several fields like science, sports, arts, and governance, among others.

How Women’s Day Is Celebrated?

The day is celebrated in myriad ways all across the world. Several events like seminars, rallies, cultural events, workshops, and award ceremonies are held to recognise, honour, and celebrate women’s achievements and discuss core issues revolving around females. Social media campaigns, awareness drive, and key initiatives play crucial role in spreading core message of equality and respect.  

Conclusion

Therefore, we can conclude here that International Women’s Day is more than just a celebration. The day is a powerful reminder of the journey towards gender equality. Right from its roots in labour movements to recognition by United Nation in 1975, the day signifies progress and ongoing efforts to achieve justice, equality, and fairness. When we celebrate Women’s Day, we not only honour women’s accomplishment but commit to build a world where everyone has equal rights and opportunities.