International Women's Day

About International Women's Day

When:  8 March (Every year)

Where: Everywhere

What:  International Women's Day (8 March) is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. In some places like China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria, International Women's Day is a national holiday.

Why:   Suffragettes campaigned for women's right to vote. The word 'Suffragette' is derived from the word "suffrage" meaning the right to vote. International Women's Day honors the work of the Suffragettes, celebrates women's success, and reminds of inequities still to be redressed. The first International Women's Day event was run in 1911.

“A woman is a full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.” Understanding a woman is a mystery and it needs lots of perseverance and knowledge. A woman is the epitome of love, sacrifice, care and ability to nurture life.

For the women of the world, the Day's symbolism has a wider meaning: It is an occasion to review how far they have come in their struggle for equality, peace and development. But is there really inequality between men and women? In one word, yes. It is true, though, that recent decades have seen progress. Women's access to education and proper health care has increased and legislation that promises equal opportunities for women and respect for their human rights has been adopted in many countries. Women now are more empowered and aware of their rights and the society has accepted their stand. The society is changing and paving way for the growth of the women. 

However, nowhere in the world can women claim to have the same rights and opportunities as men. I don't want to sound negative but it is the bitter truth. On average, women receive less pay than men earn for the same work. And everywhere women continue to be victims of violence, with rape, domestic violence and what not. International Women's Day is also a good time to continue to sound the call for change. It is important to recognize International Women's Day as a time to reflect on the progress that has been made for women.

You don't have to wait for March 8 to remember International Women's Day. Each time you go to the polls or each day that you walk into a clean, safe, work environment, you can thank those who started the movement.