Get ready to celebrate the incredible women in your life and around the world as International Women’s Day (IWD) approaches on March 8. This special day acknowledges the achievements of women and highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” This theme emphasizes the importance of appreciating and respecting women from diverse backgrounds to create a better world for everyone. When women feel valued, they become stronger and more empowered.
International Women’s Day has a long and inspiring history, originating in 1911. Over the years, it has evolved into a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call for gender equality. Despite progress, challenges like equal pay persist, making IWD a crucial reminder that the fight for equality is far from over.
How You Can Celebrate: There are numerous ways to participate in IWD and contribute to this important cause:
- Attend local events, such as marches, rallies, workshops, and panel discussions focused on women’s empowerment.
- Support women-owned businesses by consciously choosing goods and services from women-led enterprises.
- Donate to organizations that tirelessly work to advance women’s rights and well-being.
- Educate yourself and others about gender inequality issues and engage in meaningful conversations about solutions.
- Celebrate the women in your life by recognizing and appreciating their contributions in your family, community, and workplace.
Each year, on March 8th, we mark International Women’s Day. According to UNESCO, IWD emerged from the activities of labor movements in North America and Europe in the twentieth century. The initial National Woman’s Day was marked in the United States on February 28, 1909. The United Nations officially observed IWD on March 8, 1975, during International Women’s Year.
IWD is celebrated to spread the message of gender equality and create a better society free of gender bias. It addresses issues such as women’s equal rights, violence and abuse against women, and reproductive rights.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlights the achievements of women and girls globally but acknowledges the immense obstacles they face. The theme “Invest in Women” emphasizes the need to support women’s organizations, end violence against women, and promote women’s inclusion and leadership.
Closing gender gaps in employment could boost GDP by 20%, and investing in care services could create almost 300 million jobs by 2035. An additional $360 billion is needed annually for gender equality. Governments should focus on gender-responsive financing and boost public spending on crucial services.
This International Women’s Day, let’s stand together and accelerate progress towards a more just and equal world. By helping women and making sure everyone is treated fairly, we create a future where everyone can do well, making a world with lots of chances and power for everyone.
Video source: United Nations Youtube channel.
