Every year on March 8th, the world unites to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). This momentous occasion isn’t just about acknowledging the remarkable achievements of women across all spheres of life; it’s also a powerful call to action to continue the fight for gender equality and empowerment.
This significant day serves a multifold purpose:
- Honouring women’s contributions: We recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women across all spheres of life.
- Raising awareness: IWD serves as a powerful platform to highlight the persistent challenges women face in their pursuit of equality.
- Promoting action: The day is also a call to action, urging individuals and communities to continue the fight for women’s rights and advocate for equal opportunities.
History of International Women’s Day
The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 20th century, fuelled by the fight for fairer working conditions and equal rights.
In 1908, amidst deplorable working conditions, 15,000 women in New York bravely took a stand: demanding better wages, shorter working hours, and suffrage.
Their powerful protest paved the way for the Socialist Party of America to declare a National Women’s Day in 1909.
The first International Women’s Day
The idea of Women’s Day gained global momentum in 1910 when the Socialist International proposed an international day dedicated to advocating for women’s suffrage.
This culminated in the pivotal International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen in 1911, where Clara Zetkin proposed the establishment of an annual International Women’s Day.
The proposal received unanimous approval, and the first International Women’s Day was celebrated globally in 1911, with over a million participants across Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
United Nations and IWD
IWD was first officially celebrated by the United Nations in 1975, as it was designated the International Women’s Year.
Since then, the UN and numerous countries across the globe have annually observed the occasion. Every year, IWD celebration focuses on a particular theme or issue relating to women’s rights.
International Women’s Day theme 2024
The theme for International Women’s Day, (IWD 2024) is, “Inspire Inclusion”.
The IWD 2024 campaign theme focuses on a global request to #InspireInclusion because when we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2024, “Inspire Inclusion,” emphasizes the importance of fostering a world where women are understood, valued, and empowered. It encourages individuals to actively champion the inclusion of women in all aspects of society.
IWD 2024 campaign theme #InspireInclusion
The campaign #InspireInclusion outlines several key areas for action, including:
- Promoting women’s economic empowerment
- Attracting, retaining, and nurturing female talent across various sectors
- Supporting the rise of women in leadership roles and decision-making processes
- Encouraging girls’ and women’s participation in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)
- Designing and developing infrastructure that caters to the needs of women and girls
- Empowering women and girls to make informed decisions about their health
- Integrating women and girls into sustainable agricultural practices and food security initiatives
- Providing equal access to quality education and training for women and girls
International Women’s Day in India
In India, International Women’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal. The day is observed as a national holiday, and various events and activities are organized to mark the occasion. Women’s groups and organizations hold rallies, seminars, and conferences to discuss women’s issues and promote gender equality.
The Indian government also takes active participation in the celebrations, and various initiatives are launched to empower women and promote their rights.
In 2015, the Indian government launched the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter) campaign to promote gender equality and improve the welfare of girls.
One of the most significant achievements in recent years for women’s rights in India is the passing of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Government of India campaigns focusing on women
List of notable Government of India-led campaigns focusing on women and girl child empowerment.
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter): A comprehensive campaign addressing gender-biased sex selection, ensuring girls’ survival, protection, education, and participation.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (Girl Child Prosperity Scheme): A financial savings scheme under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, designed to encourage saving for a girl child’s education and marriage expenses.
Sakhi Centre: Provides integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence, including police, medical, legal, psychological, and counselling services.
Women Helpline Scheme: A universal helpline number (181) for women in distress, offering 24-hour emergency and non-emergency response services across the country.
Ujjwala Scheme: Provides LPG connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households, promoting clean cooking energy and improving women’s health.
The incredible women of India
List of few women in India who have broken barriers and achieved significant position.
Kiran Bedi: The first woman to join the Indian Police Service (IPS). She earned a reputation for her tough stance and commitment to social reforms.
PT Usha: Known as the “Payyoli Express,” PT Usha is considered one of India’s greatest athletes. She dominated Asian athletics in the 1980s, winning numerous medals and inspiring generations of female athletes.
Mary Kom: A phenomenal boxer who won six World Championships and an Olympic bronze medal. She is an inspiration to athletes and young women across the nation.
Bachendri Pal: The first Indian woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Her accomplishment paved the way for other women mountaineers.
These are just a few examples of the incredible women who have made groundbreaking contributions in India. They serve as a shining reminder of the strength, determination, and potential of women when given the chance to succeed.
While stories of prominent figures are important, the true essence of International Women’s Day lies in recognizing the impact of everyday women who work tirelessly to make a difference in their families, communities, and workplaces.
International Women’s Day celebration ideas
International Women’s Day, is a powerful reminder of the remarkable achievements of women and a call to action for continued progress towards a more equitable future. While this day deserves dedicated attention, celebrating women shouldn’t be confined to just one day.
Here are some impactful ways to celebrate International Women’s Day and continue the momentum for positive change:
- Embrace the Purple: Wear the symbolic colour of International Women’s Day to raise awareness and show solidarity with the movement for gender equality.
- Empower Through Choice: Support women-owned businesses, be it a local bakery or an online platform. Every purchase makes a difference.
- Invite Inspiring Voices: Organize a panel discussion featuring female leaders, activists, and entrepreneurs who champion diverse perspectives.
- Fuel the Cause: Donate to organizations working tirelessly to empower women, whether it’s access to education, healthcare, or economic opportunities.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Delve into the history of women’s rights movements and learn about current challenges faced by women worldwide. Share your knowledge with others to foster understanding and action.
- Amplify on Social Media: Share inspiring stories and quotes using the hashtags #IWD2024 and #InspireInclusion, and encourage others to join the conversation.
- Express Your Gratitude: Write a heartfelt letter or message to a woman who inspires you, acknowledging their impact on your life.
- Offer Your Time and Skills: Volunteer your talents to organizations supporting women’s causes.
Remember, true progress lies in sustained action. Utilize these ideas as a springboard for year-round efforts to advocate for women’s rights, challenge inequalities, and promote a world where every woman can thrive.
In conclusion, International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of women and to call for continued action to promote gender equality.
