International Women’s Day

So a few days ago on March 8, was International Women’s Day. It is a special day to recognize women for their achievements and to show appreciation. I believe it is a way to celebrate all women who have influenced you and have been a big female figure in your life. Women have achieved in many areas such as social, economic, cultural and in politics. This is an important day for women empowerment to give love and recognition to all women. 

A little history lesson about International Women’s Day, this event dates back to 108 years ago in 1909. It was the day the Socialist Party of America had celebrated 15,000 women in New York City who protested for the lack of rights to vote, low pay, and long work hours. What set this day in motion was Russia who created the trend during WWI, when women had suffered with food shortage and the men were at war. It was until 1975 that the United Nations finally recognized International Women’s Day as an international holiday.

This year’s theme is “#Each for Equal,” to push towards equality for all regardless of gender. People can become part of the change, “We can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations, and celebrate women’s achievements.” If one person is against this idea, their actions, behavior and mindset can continue to make a negative impact on society. This is why it is important that every individual becomes part of this change to oppose this act.

Women can participate by joining events that are held worldwide by women’s networks, charities, political parties, and communities. They can wear purple as it signifies justice and dignity. Women often join a march for this day so people can acknowledge the struggles women had faced and problems that still continue for women. This special day is not just acknowledgment for women, but a joyful day to spend with people and have fun in the festivals. In the U.S. it is not yet an official holiday for this country, but it does not stop the people from participating in this lively celebration. 

This holiday is celebrated in about twenty different countries. Many of these countries there is a tradition that men honor all women with flowers and small gifts. Whereas other nations treat Women’s Day like Mother’s Day where children give gifts to their mothers and grandmothers. I can be an example of this since I always bring flowers or cards to my mother and grandmother. 

To this day women continue to fight for equality in all aspects in every part of the world. It would be a dream to have a daughter and for her to never have to experience inequality nor be judged based on her gender. To be able to have the same opportunities as men both in social and economics. And that one day women will be able to reach for the top and become the president of a nation. This unfortunately is a process that everyone in the world has to contribute by becoming part of the change. So I encourage all women who read this to become more involved in their society and in politics regarding women because it can affect the lives of all women.

Here is a video of recognition of Women’s Day 2020, the fight for gender equality around the world.

Video Link: https://youtu.be/8PWybb49Syk 

Work Cited

Barrientos, Selena, and Hanna Jeon. “Why International Women’s Day Is Celebrated on March 8.” GoodHousekeeping, Mar 4. 2020,  https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/a26539742/international-womens-day-march-8/