International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women and the Fight for Equality

Being honest, I didn’t know too much about International Women’s Day (IWD), so, I went away and did some research and put it in this blog to share. It is celebrated every year on March 8th, is a global occasion dedicated to honouring the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and women’s rights. The day encourages individuals, communities, and organisations to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and take action toward a more equitable world.

The History of International Women’s Day

The roots of International Women’s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century during a time when women’s rights movements were gaining momentum across the globe. The idea for a day dedicated to women emerged from the labour and suffrage movements, which sought to address issues such as voting rights, working conditions, and economic disparity.

The first official IWD was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. This event, organised by the International Women’s Conference, was a call for women’s rights and political engagement. Over 1 million women and men participated, demanding better working conditions, an end to gender-based violence, and the right to vote.

In the following years, International Women’s Day grew in significance. In 1921, Clara Zetkin, a German Marxist theorist and activist, proposed the idea of a global day to advocate for women’s rights. Her vision for a day of international solidarity among working women laid the groundwork for what would become IWD. The date, March 8th, was chosen because it was already associated with women’s strikes and protests for labour rights.

The global nature of IWD was solidified in 1977 when the United Nations officially recognised March 8th as International Women’s Day. Since then, IWD has become a global celebration with themes and events highlighting specific areas of gender equality and women’s empowerment.

The Global Theme for 2025: “Choose to Challenge”

Each year, International Women’s Day is centred around a theme that guides discussions, actions, and reflections on women’s issues. For 2025, the theme is “Choose to Challenge.” This year’s theme emphasises the need for individuals and communities to take active roles in challenging gender bias, inequality, and discrimination. It encourages people to confront prejudices and call out instances of injustice, whether in the workplace, at home, or within broader societal structures. By actively choosing to challenge these disparities, society can drive the change necessary for true gender equality.

Celebrating Women’s Achievements

International Women’s Day provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the progress women have made, from fighting for basic rights to excelling in fields once closed off to them. It is a time to celebrate the achievements of women across various sectors, from politics and business to art, science, and sports.

Throughout history, women have made invaluable contributions that have shaped societies. Figures like Marie Curie, who won two Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry, and Rosa Parks, whose refusal to give up her seat sparked the civil rights movement, are just two examples of women who changed the world. More recently, women like Malala Yousafzai, who advocates for girls’ education, and Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, continue to inspire through their leadership, bravery, and commitment to social justice.

International Women’s Day serves as a celebration of these trailblazers and many others who continue to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of women. The day also reminds us of the importance of supporting women’s leadership and amplifying their voices in all spheres of life.

The Fight for Gender Equality Continues

Despite the strides made, gender inequality remains a pressing issue across the globe. Women still face wage disparities, limited access to education and healthcare, and violence at an alarming rate. The gender gap in political representation and leadership positions continues to be a challenge, and women of colour, LGBTQ+ women, and those from marginalised communities often experience compounded forms of discrimination.

The fight for gender equality is far from over. IWD serves as a rallying point for advocacy and activism. Whether it’s through grassroots movements, corporate initiatives, or international policies, there is a shared commitment to continue breaking down the barriers that hold women back. As of today, the need for equity, respect, and opportunity for women is clearer than ever.

Inspiration for the Future

International Women’s Day is not just a day for reflection; it is a day to be inspired by the resilience and strength of women around the world. The stories of women who have overcome hardship, faced adversity, and fought for their rights remind us of the power of collective action and determination. Women like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who spent her life advocating for equal rights, and Oprah Winfrey, who built an empire and platform to empower others, demonstrate that with perseverance, anything is possible.

For future generations, IWD offers a call to action. It urges everyone to be bold in their pursuit of gender equality, to stand up for women’s rights, and to challenge the status quo. The day empowers individuals to speak out, take risks, and build a world where every girl and woman can live freely, confidently, and without fear of discrimination.

I hope you have enjoyed learning about IWD and can take away something new from it. International Women’s Day is a celebration of the incredible accomplishments of women throughout history, as well as a call to action to continue fighting for equality. It is a reminder that while progress has been made, the journey toward gender equity is ongoing.