March 8th is International Women’s Day (IWD)
(November 19th is International Men’s Day)
- IWD is Over 100 Years Old
It has been celebrated since 1911. The first events took place in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland – and more than a million people participated.
- It Began with a Focus on Voting Rights
One of the earliest and biggest goals of the movement was women’s suffrage – the right to vote. Many early rallies centered around labor rights and political participation.
- The United Nations Joined in 1975
The United Nations officially began celebrating International Women’s Day in 1975, during International Women’s Year, helping globalize the observance.
- Purple Is the Official Color
Purple represents justice and dignity. Green symbolizes hope. White stands for purity. These colors originated with the Women’s Social and Political Union in the UK in 1908.
- It’s a Public Holiday in Some Countries
International Women’s Day is a national holiday in countries like Russia, Vietnam, and Zambia. In some places, it’s customary to give flowers to women – similar to a blend of Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day…another reason to give flowers to a woman you love!
- Each Year Has a Theme
Every year, International Women’s Day has a global theme (like equity, leadership, innovation, or breaking bias) to spotlight current challenges and progress. This year, the official International Women’s Day 2026 theme is “Give to Gain.” This campaign encourages generosity, collaboration, and support – celebrating the idea that when we give opportunities, resources, and support to women and girls, everyone benefits and gains.
- It Celebrates Women in All Fields
From science and politics to art and agriculture, IWD highlights contributions by women everywhere — including pioneers like:
-
- Marie Curie (first woman to win a Nobel Prize)
- Malala Yousafzai (youngest Nobel laureate)
- It’s About Both Celebration and Action
It’s not just a celebration – it’s also a call to action for gender equality worldwide.
Theme: Give to Gain
When we give support, opportunity, encouragement, and room at the table – we all gain.
When women rise, communities grow stronger.
When girls are educated, futures expand.
When we choose equity, everyone benefits.
Today we celebrate the women who nurture, lead, create, build, heal, teach, and quietly hold the world together – often all at once.
