As the world gears up to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, the theme for 2024, ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,’ resonates as a call to action against economic disempowerment. The day serves as a global tribute to the achievements of women, highlighting their contributions across various fields and advocating for gender equality.
The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 20th century, with the precise inception sparking debates. Some attribute its beginnings to the 1909 march in New York by socialist women and textile workers, who fervently advocated for shorter working hours, higher pay, and voting rights. Others credit Clara Zetkin, an anti-fascist and socialist German leader, who proposed the concept at a 1910 Copenhagen conference attended by representatives from 17 countries.
Throughout the Cold War era, the celebration gained momentum, with European activists championing women’s rights, including voting rights, equal pay, and workplace rights. Over a million people participated in rallies across Europe, and in 1975, the United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day.
The celebration has evolved into a public holiday in numerous countries, with Russia marking it as a national holiday, and China often observing it with women taking a half-day off from work. In Italy, the tradition of exchanging mimosa blooms on this day is thought to have originated in post-World War II Rome.
In the United States, March is dedicated to Women’s History Month, with a presidential proclamation each year commemorating the achievements of American women.
As the globe unites to celebrate International Women’s Day, the theme emphasizes the need to invest in women to accelerate progress, particularly in addressing economic disparities. The day serves as a poignant reminder of the progress made in advancing gender equality and the ongoing work needed to build a more inclusive and empowering world.
