What is International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated every year on March 8 to honor the achievements of women throughout history and to advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. It’s a day of recognition, reflection, and action, bringing people together worldwide to support and empower women.

How did International Women’s Day start?

IWD dates back to the early 1900s, when women were fighting for better working conditions, voting rights, and an end to discrimination. In 1908, thousands of women marched in New York City to demand these rights. The following year, the United States observed its first National Women’s Day on February 28.

In 1910, at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, activist Clara Zetkin proposed an annual global day dedicated to women’s rights. The idea was unanimously supported, and the first official International Women’s Day was celebrated in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.

Since then, IWD has grown into a global movement, with millions of people using the day to advocate for equality. Each year, a new theme highlights key issues facing women. Recent themes include “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” (2024), “DigitALL” (2023), “Break the Bias” (2022), “Choose to Challenge” (2021), and “Each for Equal” (2020).

Why is International Women’s Day important?

Throughout history, women have had to fight for fundamental rights, from voting to equal pay and workplace protections. IWD serves as a platform for women to share their experiences, build solidarity, and push for meaningful change.

In recent years, movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp have brought attention to the widespread issues of harassment and discrimination. IWD has become a rallying point for those demanding justice, equality, and an end to gender-based violence.

While progress has been made, significant challenges remain. Around the world, many women still face wage gaps, limited access to education and healthcare, and systemic discrimination. IWD serves as a reminder that the fight for equality continues and that collective action is essential in building a world where all women can thrive.

International Women’s Day 2025: How You Can Make a Difference

The theme for Women’s History Month 2025 is "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment." This theme calls for global action to ensure that women and girls everywhere have equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources.

Organizations like Shashwatam Gems are committed to this mission by investing in the dreams of women and girls worldwide. By providing support, education, and resources, we can help break down barriers and create brighter futures.

Join us in making a difference—support and uplift women and girls today!