Men and women across the world are celebrating International Women’s Day. Countries have been celebrating their own version of Women’s Day for years. In 1909 the first Women’s Day in the U.S. was celebrated. In 1975, the United Nations started celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8th. Today is a time in which we all assess and push forward women’s rights and issues in all aspects of life. We think the IWD website (International Women’s Day) says it best when they say the following:
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #InspireInclusion.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2024
‘Inspire Inclusion’
The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Collectively, let’s forge a more inclusive world for women. Read more about a definition of what it means to inspire inclusion here.
What exactly is International Women’s Day?
With well over a century of history and change, the first International Women’s Day (IWD) was held in March 1911. IWD isn’t country, group or organization specific. It’s a day of collective global activism and celebration that belongs to all those committed to forging women’s equality.
World-renowned feminist, journalist and activist, Gloria Steinem, reportedly once explained:
“The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”
So together, let’s all help fight the good fight. All IWD activity is valid, that’s what makes IWD so inclusive. Join in and make IWD your day by doing what you can to support and advance women.