The History and Evolution of International Women’s Day: Why It Still Matters
Celebrating Progress, Honouring Struggles, and Inspiring Change
International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a global movement that celebrates the achievements of women while recognizing the ongoing fight for gender equality. Observed annually on March 8, this day has evolved from a labour movement in the early 20th century to a worldwide call for change. But how did it start, and why is it still relevant today? Let’s check the history, significance, and the continued impact of International Women’s Day.
The Origins: A Fight for Equality
The roots of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 1900s, a time when women across the world were fighting for better working conditions, suffrage, and equal rights. The first official Women’s Day was observed in 1909 in the United States, organized by the Socialist Party of America in honour of the 1908 garment workers' strike in New York. Women were demanding shorter hours, better pay, and voting rights.
A year later, in 1910, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of an international day for women at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen. The idea was met with unanimous support, and on March 19, 1911, the first official International Women’s Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Over a million people participated in rallies advocating for women’s rights to work, vote, and hold public office.
Expansion and Global Recognition
In 1917, International Women’s Day took on even greater significance when Russian women protested for "Bread and Peace," demanding the end of World War I and better living conditions. Their efforts led to major political changes, including women gaining the right to vote in Russia. Following this, March 8 was formally recognized as International Women’s Day.
As the decades passed, more countries acknowledged and embraced the day. The United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day in 1975, declaring it a day to celebrate women's achievements and promote gender equality worldwide. Since then, it has grown into a globally recognized movement with themes and campaigns that highlight pressing issues faced by women.
Why International Women’s Day Still Matters Today
While progress has been made, gender inequality remains a significant issue. Women continue to face disparities in wages, political representation, education, and workplace opportunities. In many parts of the world, gender-based violence, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare remain critical challenges.
Each year, International Women’s Day is marked by a global theme that raises awareness and drives action. Themes like #EachforEqual (2020), #ChooseToChallenge (2021), and #BreakTheBias (2022) highlight the ongoing fight against stereotypes and discrimination. In 2024, the theme emphasizes the importance of embracing equity and ensuring that all women, regardless of background, have equal opportunities.
How People and Organizations Celebrate International Women’s Day
Events and Marches: Women’s rights groups and activists organize rallies and events to raise awareness about gender issues.
Corporate Initiatives: Companies use this day to promote diversity and inclusion, recognizing female employees and addressing workplace inequalities.
Educational Campaigns: Schools and universities hold discussions and programs to educate young people about gender equality.
Social Media Movements: Hashtags and online campaigns spread awareness, amplify voices, and encourage people to take action.
The Future of International Women’s Day
The world has come a long way since the first Women’s Day, but there is still much work to be done. The fight for gender equality is ongoing, and International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder that progress requires continuous effort. Whether through activism, policy changes, or societal shifts, every individual plays a role in advancing gender equity.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s honour the past, acknowledge the present, and work toward a future where equality is not just an aspiration but a reality for all women.
How will you contribute to the movement?
About the Creator
Keep reading
More stories from Bevy Osuos and writers in Viva and other communities.
Canada Goose vs. Bald Eagle Fight: Battle Caught on Camera
Nature is full of surprises, and a recent encounter between a Canada goose and a bald eagle has left wildlife enthusiasts and casual observers stunned. The dramatic fight, caught on camera in Burlington, Ontario, in late February 2025, showcased a fierce battle between two birds that are often seen as national symbols: the bald eagle representing the United States and the Canada goose symbolizing Canada.
By Bevy Osuos11 months ago in Earth
Germany Downplays US Threat to Greenland
Introduction Recent comments about the United States and Greenland have drawn international attention, especially in Europe. Reports suggesting that the US could threaten or pressure Greenland have raised concerns among NATO allies and Arctic nations. In response, Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has moved to calm the situation. He has clearly stated that Germany does not see a serious or immediate threat from the United States toward Greenland and has urged allies to focus on cooperation rather than speculation.
By sehzeen fatima5 days ago in Viva
Recapping an Amazing Night for the Knockouts on Impact's AMC Premiere
The broadcast history of Total Nonstop Action Wrestling has always been quite interesting. TNA started in 2002, but it wasn't until 2004 that they had an actual TV deal. I remember their days on Fox Sports Net, but it was in the fall of 2005 that TNA moved to what was then known as Spike TV, moving there just days after the network aired WWE's Raw program for the final time. It was around that time that I started watching TNA, and they were on Spike for nine years. After that, it was years of being on a lot of different channels. Destination America and Pop, two channels that no one would know without TNA. It's similar to how TruTV airs the earliest March Madness games. I still remember the brief time when they were on Twitch in 2019, but that ended that fall when they moved to AXS TV.
By Clyde E. Dawkins2 days ago in Viva
Comments (1)
It matters a lot! Great! Well done!