Womanifest: Tracing the Roots of International Women's Day

Hey readers! I'm back with another blog, but today, as we celebrate International Women's Day, I want to delve into the reasons behind why we mark this occasion. As a woman, I've received and sent many wishes, but it's important for all of us to understand the events that led to the celebration of womanhood. So, dear readers, let's dive in and explore the lesser-known stories that gave rise to Women's Day.

The roots of International Women's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century, a time when women's movements were gaining momentum in advocating for improved working conditions, suffrage rights, and social equality.

In the United States, the first National Woman's Day was observed on February 28, 1909, following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. This day was chosen by the Socialist Party of America to commemorate the 1908 New York garment workers' strike, during which female demonstrators opposed unfavourable working conditions. Then, in 1910, during the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin suggested establishing an annual Women's Day to champion women's rights and suffrage. 

The proposal garnered unanimous support, leading to the inaugural International Women's Day celebration in 1911, which saw participation from over a million people across Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, It was organized to demand women's rights to work, vote, and hold public office. The United States honoured International Women's Day on March 8, 1975.

International Women's Day holds significant importance as a rallying point for gender equality and women's rights. It serves as a platform to highlight the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women globally. Moreover, it shines a light on the persistent obstacles and inequalities women continue to face, including gender-based discrimination, violence, and unequal access to education and employment opportunities.

Looking ahead, International Women's Day not only celebrates women's achievements but also ignites global efforts toward gender equality. It offers a chance for governments, organizations, and individuals to recommit themselves to advancing women's rights and empowerment. To achieve this, it's crucial to invest in policies and initiatives that address the root causes of gender inequality, such as discriminatory laws and societal norms.

The celebration of International Women's Day takes various forms, including panel discussions, workshops, art exhibitions, film screenings, marches, and social media campaigns. Additionally, individuals and organizations use this day to honor inspirational women and pledge support for gender equality initiatives in their communities.

Men also play a vital role in achieving gender equality by actively supporting and advocating for women's rights. By becoming allies in this fight, men can help dismantle patriarchal systems and create space for women to thrive. It's essential for men to listen to women's experiences, amplify their voices, and work toward building a more inclusive and equitable society. Together, men and women can pave the way for a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from discrimination and enjoy equal opportunities.

Some remarkable events related to women's day: 

1917 - Russian Revolution: On March 8, 1917 (February 23 in the Julian calendar then used in Russia), women textile workers in Petrograd (now Saint Petersburg) went on strike, demanding bread and an end to World War I. This strike sparked the Russian Revolution, leading to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and eventually the establishment of the Soviet Union.

1975 - International Women's Year: The United Nations celebrated International Women's Year in 1975, with the theme "Equality, Development, and Peace." This event helped raise global awareness about women's rights and gender equality issues.

1995 - Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: At the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing in 1995, governments adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark document outlining key actions needed to advance women's rights and gender equality worldwide.

2017 - Women's March: Following the inauguration of President Donald Trump in the United States, millions of women and allies around the world participated in the Women's March on January 21, 2017, to advocate for women's rights, reproductive rights, immigration reform, LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and environmental justice.

These incidents, among others, highlight the historical significance of International Women's Day and the ongoing struggle for women's rights and gender equality worldwide.

As a woman in my 20s, I'm inspired by the stories of those who came before me—women who fought tirelessly for the rights and opportunities we often take for granted today. But I'm also acutely aware of the work that still needs to be done. Gender inequality, discrimination, and violence against women continue to persist in various forms, reminding us that our fight for equality is far from over.

However, on International Women's Day, we come together to reaffirm our commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive world for all. It's a day to celebrate the achievements of women, amplify their voices, and advocate for positive change. It's a day to recognize the invaluable contributions of women in every sphere of life and to honor the diverse experiences and perspectives that make our world richer and more vibrant.

As we move forward, let's remember that achieving gender equality is not just a women's issue; it's a human issue. It requires the active involvement and support of everyone, regardless of gender. So let's continue to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and uplift one another as we strive to create a future where every woman and girl can fulfill her potential and thrive.

On International Women's Day (2024), under the themes "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress" and "Inspire Inclusion," we have an opportunity to collaborate and create a more equitable, prosperous, and inclusive world for all. Happy International Women's Day to all the incredible women out there. Today, and every day, may we continue to inspire, empower, and support each other on our journey towards a more just and equitable world.