International Women’s Day on March 8 annually is used all over the world to celebrate women’s achievement, bring people’s attention to the issue of gender inequality, and fight for women’s rights. It can feel like something recent, a contemporary observance, but indeed this day holds strong roots within history. And why, precisely, is it celebrated on the eighth of March? Let’s look at what has led it to be set on this specific date.
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The History of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day was not always celebrated around the world. The concept initially gained momentum in the early 20th century when there was industrialization and an increase in social movements. It all started in 1908 when about 15,000 women marched in New York City demanding improved working conditions, reduced working hours, increased wages, and the right to vote. This was the start of a major movement for women’s rights.
The next year, in 1909, the Socialist Party of America proclaimed the first National Women’s Day, and it was noticed in political circles. But the concept of making it international was proposed by Clara Zetkin, a German socialist and women’s rights activist. Zetkin proposed the idea of International Women’s Day at a conference of working women in Copenhagen in 1910. There were 100 women from 17 nations attending the conference, and all were in favor of an international day for women’s concerns.
The First International Women’s Day
The inaugural International Women’s Day was commemorated in 1911 in nations such as Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. This event was used to campaign for equal rights, including women’s right to vote and improved working conditions. International Women’s Day was celebrated its centennial year in 2011, highlighting its rich history.
Nonetheless, it wasn’t until 1975 that the United Nations officially acknowledged International Women’s Day, and the day has since been commemorated every year on March 8. In 1996, the UN even had its very first theme, “Celebrating the Past, Planning for the Future,” that celebrated both its achievements and current challenges in ensuring gender equality.
The March 8 Date: Why This Day?
The choosing of March 8 as International Women’s Day is directly linked with the history of the Russian Revolution. In World War I, Russian women demonstrated for “bread and peace,” calling for improved living conditions, food, and a stop to the war. The demonstrations became a turning point and ultimately led to the Russian February Revolution. The demonstrations resulted in the resignation of Tsar Nicholas II and the establishment of a provisional government, which gave the vote to women.
March 8, 1917, is usually considered the turning point when these protests became a revolution, and the date became formally linked with International Women’s Day.
The Symbolism of Colors: Purple, Green, and White
When we think of International Women’s Day, we often associate it with the color purple. This color is seen as a symbol of justice and dignity. In fact, the colors associated with this day—purple, green, and white—have deep symbolic meaning. Purple represents justice and dignity, green stands for hope, and white symbolizes purity. The colors were first used by the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1908 in the UK, which was a women’s suffrage movement.
While these colors have been used in recent times as part of the contemporary celebrations, there has been some controversy over their origin. Some of the women’s rights activists have argued that the colors had been used to symbolize the general movement towards equality and not specifically International Women’s Day.
How International Women’s Day Keeps Inspiring Change
Although the origins of International Women’s Day are rooted in protests and political activism, now it is a worldwide celebration of women’s accomplishments in politics, economics, education, and many other areas. Not only is the day a reminder of how far women have come, but it is also a time to bring attention to the issues women still face.
The battles for gender equality, equal pay, education, and against gender-based violence are all concerns that continue to be at the forefront of International Women’s Day. In 2025, celebrating another International Women’s Day, it is important to keep in mind that the battle for gender equality continues. By joining this day, we recognize both the achievements of women and the efforts still left to be achieved.
Conclusion: Looking Back at Women’s Achievements and Challenges
International Women’s Day, today observed worldwide, has its roots in the era when women were fighting for fundamental rights. March 8’s historical importance is a reminder of the struggle for equality that dates back long, and as we mark this day, we remember not just the achievements of the past but also the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and empowerment. Through this day, we join all women around the world in solidarity to achieve a world where equality is the norm and not an exception.
With the UN carrying out various themes annually, March 8th continues to be a crucial point in time for people all around the globe to look back, engage, and take steps toward a fair and equitable world.
