The theme for this year’s IWD campaign, from the IWD website is #InspireInclusion. Collectively, we can all #InspireInclusion.
International communities gather to honour the achievements of women, confront gender biases, and address the multifaceted hurdles women continue to face globally.
PUNCH Online, in this report, highlights 10 facts to know about International Women’s Day:
1. Origin and Historical Roots:
International Women’s Day (IWD) traces its origins to the early 20th-century labour and socialist movements. The inaugural National Women’s Day, organised by the Socialist movement in the United States, took place on February 28, 1909. The concept of transforming it into an international event gained momentum at the 1910 International Women’s Conference.
2. Celebration Date:
Recognising the achievements and contributions of women globally, the day is observed annually on March 8. The United Nations officially endorsed this date in 1977, establishing it as a day to honour women worldwide.
3. United Nations Recognition:
Designated an official day of observance by the United Nations in 1977, International Women’s Day serves as a platform to address various aspects of gender equality and women’s rights, with the annual theme changing to reflect pertinent issues.
4. Global Theme:
Each year, International Women’s Day adopts a global theme reflecting contemporary challenges. Previous themes include “Choose to Challenge,” “Press for Progress,” and “Equality for Women is Progress for All.”
5. Purple Symbolism:
Recognised as the official colour of International Women’s Day, purple symbolises justice and dignity. Linked to the feminist movement since the early 1900s, it represents the ongoing pursuit of gender equality.
6. Women’s Rights and Suffrage:
Integral to the fight for women’s rights and suffrage, International Women’s Day has been a platform for advocating voting rights and combating discrimination in various forms.
7. International Women’s Day Logo:
The logo features a symbol resembling the female gender sign with a raised fist, symbolising solidarity and the continuous struggle for women’s rights.
8. Global Celebrations:
International Women’s Day is widely observed and celebrated in numerous countries worldwide. Events such as marches, rallies, discussions, and cultural performances contribute to raising awareness about gender equality.
9. 2024 Campaign theme:
The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is #InspireInclusion. By inspiring understanding and appreciation for women’s inclusion, we contribute to creating a better world. When women are inspired to embrace inclusion, they experience a profound sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Let’s collectively forge a more inclusive world for women.
10. Ongoing Challenges:
Despite advancements, women globally continue to face challenges, including gender-based violence, unequal pay, limited access to education and healthcare, and underrepresentation in leadership roles. International Women’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing efforts required to achieve genuine gender equality.
International Women’s Day 2024
Meanwhile, International Women’s Day is not only celebrated on a global scale but also at the local level.
Communities, organisations, and individuals organise events, workshops, and discussions to address specific issues faced by women in their respective regions.
The day serves as a time for reflection on progress made and future goals.
The focus is on identifying areas where further advancements are needed, and discussions often revolve around shaping policies and practices that foster gender equality on a global scale.
