By Dana Lakins, Trenton Education Association
Member, NJEA Women in Education Committee
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a day to honor women’s rights and call for equal rights for all people around the world.
This movement took root from the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the United Kingdom in the early 1900s. The idea of an International Women’s Day was introduced by Clara Zetkin at the second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen. Zetkin was the leader of the Women’s Office for Social Democratic Party in Germany. The idea was proudly supported by 100 women from 17 countries.
The first International Women’s Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland in 1911. Protest and rallies that demanded voting rights, working rights and the ability to hold public office for women marked the day.
A century later, many of these same issues are at the forefront of IWD. Issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights and preventing violence against women continue to affect our communities, but women around the world stand united.
When is IWD?
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on Mar. 8. Zetkin did not have a single day in mind when the idea was introduced but the Mar. 8 date was chosen after Russian women demanded bread and peace during a war-time strike that took place on Feb. 23 on the Georgian calendar. This date translated to Mar. 8on all other calendars.
In 1975, President Jimmy Carter declared the week of Mar. 8 National Women’s History Week and the United Nations recognized International Women’s Day for the first time, as well.
Accelerate Action
At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum.
Focusing on the need to Accelerate Action emphasizes the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality. It calls for increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres.
Learn more and take action
Visit the IWD website for information and ways to get involved.