International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebrated on March 8 every year. In order to recognize the achievements of women in various fields such as social, economic, cultural and political. It also calls for and promotes gender equality. International Women’s Day commemorates more than a hundred years of women’s struggle for peace, equality and development in all countries. It is so significant that it has now become an important day to celebrate the power of women around the world.
History of International Women’s Day
This holiday originated in the early 20th century when working women in Europe and the United States fought for equal rights. During that time, women suffered from many inequalities. More and more women took up the cause for themselves and participated in the campaigns for redress.
On March 8, 1909, women workers in Chicago, Illinois, and workers in the textile and garment industries across the country held a huge strike. They demanded wage increases, an eight-hour workday, and the right to vote. This was the first organized mass struggle of working women in history, fully demonstrating the power of working women.
In 1910, at the Second International Socialist Women’s Congress. The German socialist Clara Zetkin proposed the establishment of an International Women’s Day. This proposal was unanimously adopted. More than 100 women delegates from 17 countries participated in this conference.
On March 19, 1911, the first International Women’s Day was celebrated in Germany, Austria, Denmark and several other European countries. It marked the economic, social, cultural and political achievements of women.
In 1975, International Women’s Day was officially recognized by the United Nations.
In 1977, the United Nations designated March 8 as the United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace.
Significance of The Festival
Clara Zetkin was one of the main promoters of Women’s Day. It is a festival that commemorates more than 100 years of women’s struggle for peace, equality and development in all countries. It ranges from a general celebration of respect, appreciation and love for women to a celebration of women’s achievements in the economic, political and social spheres. The festival began as a political event initiated by socialist feminists. As a result, the festival has blended with the cultures of many countries, mainly in socialist countries.
International Women’s Day Anecdotes From Around the World
This important day is celebrated by women in all countries. Because it stands for fairness, justice, peace and development.
In Germany, the federal state of Berlin celebrates International Women’s Day as a public holiday.
In Italy, men give yellow mimosas to women to celebrate this day. Every woman, young or old, holds a flower in her hand that day.
In Russia, men buy flowers such as tulips and hyacinths or beautifully wrapped chocolates and candies as gifts for the women around them.
In Nepal, women wearing red “saris” flocked to the Pashupati Temple in Kathmandu and sang hymns in front of the idol.