International Women’s Day is an important global event that honors and celebrates women all over the world. It is celebrated on 8th of March every year. It is a day to raise awareness about women’s rights, the right to abortion, gender equality and the right to education. Women’s day provides a platform on a global level to celebrate to women’s achievements, to raise awareness about gender inequalities and increasing support for women worldwide. This day is celebrated to acknowledge women’s contributions in social, cultural, economic and political issues.
HISTORY
International Women’s Day was created in the early 1900s. It was originally started in the United States where women fought for equal rights. Soon it became a global movement spreading to more than 100 countries. International Women’s Day was recognized for the first time on March 19, 1911. On its 100th anniversary in 2011, March was declared as Women’s History Month thus establishing March 8 as International Women’s Day all over the world.
THEME
International Women’s Day is now celebrated in over 100 countries using themes and colors to symbolize important values. Purple, green and white are the colors of the women’s day. Purple represents justice and dignity. White symbolizes purity and green stands for hope.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is ‘INSPIRE INCLUSION’. Invest in women: accelerate progress. This powerful slogan encourages collective action and investment in women, highlighting it as a human rights issue and emphasizing the urgency to accelerate progress.
SIGNIFICANCE
Over the years, International Women’s Day has become a day for speaking about the importance of gender equality. It serves as a reminder of the inequalities that still exist and the ongoing effort towards women’s rights all over the world. Inequality could be in the difference in the pay scale, social status and even equal voting rights between men and women. Female foeticide, child marriage, not giving opportunity to study, child abuse and rapes are some of the crimes that are committed against girl child and women. It is important to have a day that reaches out and helps in solving all the discriminations that are happening against women.
Michelle Obama, former 1st lady of the United States rightly said – “there is no limit to what we, as women can accomplish”. International Women’s Day also celebrates the remarkable achievements of women in different fields. This day is a reflection of the strength, wisdom and resilience of women. This day reminds us of the struggles and triumphs of women who have paved the way for progress and equality. Women are undoubtedly turning the world’s attention to them in all fields by achieving incredible heights. Women are seen to achieve success in all areas from teaching to art, health sector, research, corporate, finance, politics to even travelling to space!
TAKEAWAY
On this International Women’s Day 2024, through the adoption of the theme ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’ and ‘Inspire Inclusion’, we can work together to build a more equitable, prosperous and inclusive world for all. Let us focus on empowering young girls to create a brighter and more inclusive future. Let us acknowledge and honor the women who have dedicated their lives to the noble cause of education. In our workplaces and homes, lets aim to support and encourage one another, making sure that every Indian woman has the chance to reach her full potential. Happy International Women’s Day Everyone!
