International Women’s Day is recognized and celebrated around the world, but more importantly, it recognizes the action that still needs to be taken. Women around the world fight for the right to equal pay, the right to make decisions about their own bodies, and the right to an education. This past Sunday, millions of participants in various events, protests and marches celebrated and advocated for the empowerment of women. The United Nations has recognized the Day since 1977, and this recognition has helped participants promote continued global social and political change.
People will celebrate the Day for the 115th time in 2026, which makes it one of the longest-standing global events still recognized today. This year’s theme is ‘Give to Gain’. This focuses on the act of giving to women’s organizations. It also focuses on donating time to educate others and to challenge women’s rights to be equal to that of men. Currently, women are granted only 64% of the rights that men are.
Importance and History of March 8.
The idea of an official Women’s Day started in the United States in 1909. However, in 1910 a German feminist proposed it be done globally. This was the first time the events crossed the Atlantic. The women used this day to protest the armed conflicts during WW1.
People celebrate Women’s Day on March 8 because a huge protest in Russia in 1917 pushed Russia to leave the war. The UN recognized the holiday in 1975. More than 20 countries now recognize it as a holiday.
Berlin Marches
There was a huge march in Berlin this Sunday with 20,000 people. That was double the expected number by the police. In Germany, speakers talked about the issues of gender discrimination and violence. In Brazil, at least 15 protests occurred in the country.
Protest organizers in Brazil want to stop femicide and violence against women. People were enraged about a current criminal case in Rio de Janeiro. Almost every 10 minutes, a woman is killed by a partner or relative. This supports the fact that we need to focus on women’s rights.
Women’s Rights Progress
A lot of people think the holiday is very important. Some people think that the legal rights from the last century that were made are being undone. The new US supreme court decision about abortion, has also started a lot of debates in Europe and the US.
Social media makes it easier for women to share their stories and mobilize under difficult circumstances. Like women, social media gives oppressed voices the ability to share their stories and organize. As the world changes, so does International Women’s Day. It serves as a celebration of the past and a guide to the future.
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