History of International Women’s Day

March 13, 2024March 13, 2024 by Helen Bour

March 8^th every year is designated to be International Women’s Day, celebrated widely across the globe. International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration that honors the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. The day also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s rights. IWD focuses on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights and violence against women. Wondering why the day came about or the reason for its celebration? Here’s a brief history:

Historical Background:

The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to the labor and socialist movements of the early 20th century. Both the American labor movement and the cause for women’s suffrage were growing in popularity in 1909. The first National Women’s Day was organized by the Socialist movement in the United States on February 28, 1909. The gathering also soon captivated the minds of Marxists throughout Europe.

The International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen in 1910 gave rise to the notion of an international celebration of women. German socialist Clara Zetkin proposed the concept of an annual Women’s Day as a means to actively promote women’s demands, including the ability to vote, work, and hold public office. Europe observed the first International Women’s Day at Clara Zetkin’s proposal. They decided on March 8, 1911, the 40th anniversary of the Paris Commune, the revolutionary socialist government that briefly governed France, rather than February as the date. Women gave speeches and marches to commemorate the event (The roots of International Women’s Day are more radical than you think (nationalgeographic.com))

The first official International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in several European countries. Millions of men and women participated in rallies, demanding women’s rights to work, vote, and hold public office.

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire:

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in New York City claimed the lives of 146 individuals, primarily young immigrant women, barely a week after the inaugural International Women’s Day. Since then, the incident has led to numerous improvements in industrial working conditions, and International Women’s Days have frequently included memorials to the victims (A Brief History of International Women’s Day (thoughtco.com))

The Russian Revolution and Catalyst for Change:

On March 8, 1917, Russian women began striking for “Bread and Peace” during the Russian Revolution. The United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day in 1977. Since then, it has become a global event celebrated in numerous countries around the world. Every year, the global community observes International Women’s Day with a theme that actively reflects the contemporary problems and difficulties experienced by women around the world. Gender equality, violence against women, women’s economic empowerment, and other issues have all been themes. This year’s theme, ‘ Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ targeted economic disempowerment.

Today, International Women’s Day is not only a time for reflection but also for action. Events, discussions, and activities take place worldwide to promote gender equality, highlight women’s achievements, and address ongoing challenges.

Take a moment to celebrate yourself if you are a woman, celebrate a mother, a friend, a sister, a grandma or that special friend. Cheers to women all over the world making the strides.