4 things to know about international womens day

Here are four things to know about International Women's Day:

  1. History: International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th century, when women's rights activists in the United States and Europe began organizing protests and rallies to demand equal rights and suffrage. The first International Women's Day was celebrated on March 8, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. The day was chosen to commemorate the 1910 International Conference of Working Women, where women from around the world demanded better working conditions, equal pay, and the right to vote.
  2. Purpose: International Women's Day is a global celebration of the economic, political, and social achievements of women. It is also a call to action to accelerate gender equality and women's empowerment. The day aims to highlight the challenges and obstacles that women face in their daily lives, such as gender-based violence, discrimination, and unequal pay. It also aims to promote women's participation in the workforce, education, and decision-making processes.
  3. Symbolism: The color purple is often associated with International Women's Day, as it represents the struggle for women's rights and the fight against gender-based violence. The color pink is also commonly used, as it symbolizes femininity and the empowerment of women. The symbol of the day is the "Rise of the Phoenix," which represents the transformation and rebirth of women's rights movements around the world.
  4. Global impact: International Women's Day is celebrated in over 100 countries around the world, with events ranging from rallies and protests to cultural performances and educational workshops. The day has also inspired a global movement, with many organizations and individuals using the hashtag #InternationalWomensDay to share stories, photos, and videos of women's achievements and struggles. The day has also led to significant policy changes and advancements in women's rights, such as the adoption of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.