Do you know what today is? I had never heard of this holiday until eight years ago when I was a Corporate Sales Manager at FedEx visiting my flower customers in Ecuador. They shared with me that they ship just as many flowers to Russia and Europe for this day as they do for flowers to the US for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. Give up? March 8th, all around the world, represents International Women’s Day. Although it was not made official in the United States until 1909 (also on a different date) It has a long and rich history that every woman should be familiar. Below are some facts that might be of interest to you.
“International Women's Day is the story of ordinary women as makers of history; it is rooted in the centuries-old struggle of women to participate in society on an equal footing with men. In ancient Greece, Lysistrata initiated a sexual strike against men in order to end war; during the French Revolution, Parisian women calling for "liberty, equality, fraternity" marched on Versailles to demand women's suffrage.”
“Few causes promoted by the United Nations have generated more intense and widespread support than the campaign to promote and protect the equal rights of women.”
“Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more.”
Various International Women’s Day (IWD) themes around the world. Below are some from the UN in previous years:
(2010 - Equal Rghts, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All)
2009 - Women and Men United to End Violence Against Women and Girls
2008 - Investing in Women and Girls
2007 - Ending Impunity for Violence against Women and Girls
2006 - Women in Decision-Making
Now that you know about this day, how will you honor and celebrate it?
Resources:
UN Website
International Women’s Day Website
