International Women's Day, celebrated annually on March 8th, is a global occasion to honour the achievements of women, recognise their contributions to society, and advocate for gender equality. In 2024, this significant day falls on a Thursday, providing an opportunity for individuals worldwide to come together and reflect on the progress made towards gender parity while acknowledging the work that remains to be done.
What is the history and origin of this day?
The origins of International Women's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century, marked by women's movements advocating for better working conditions, suffrage, and social equality. The first National Woman's Day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909, following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. In 1910, during the International Conference of Working Women held in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin proposed establishing an annual Women's Day to advocate for women's rights and suffrage. The proposal was met with unanimous approval, leading to the first International Women's Day being celebrated in 1911 by over a million people across Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.