March 8th is International Women’s Day

By Ramona Buda

How many people know that International Women’s Day was first observed in the United States? Everyone in Europe knows that March 8th is an official holiday celebrated as International Women’s Day however; only few people in North America are familiar with this unique day. The woman is the most important being in the world – mother and daughter – elements without which the whole universe would not exist. Where was International Woman’s Day (IWD) born? How is it celebrated and what it signifies internationally?

Marked as a major day of global celebration, International Women’s Day acknowledges the economic, political and social achievements of women. Some countries around the world celebrate both International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day on March 8th.

Before the turn of the 20th century, on March 8th 1857, women from clothing factories started a protest over working conditions and low wages in New York City, and created the first labour union two years later. In the years that followed, more protests were held by women in New York City on March 8th. In 1910 the International Women’s Day was established at a conference held in Copenhagen. The following year, more than a million people in Europe celebrated March 8th. In the United States, it commemorated the 1911 drama of 140 women who burned in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire.

Since then, March 8th has become an official holiday in most countries in Europe, Brazil, Cameron, China, Cuba, Vietnam India, Pakistan and Zambia. This important day celebrates women’s movement for equality, women’s rights and equality of chances. Countries such as England host yearly events on March 8th to commemorate the women who fought for the right to vote, right to educate, right to medical care, divorce or contraception.

March 8th celebrates the woman, the joy of life and motivation to live. On International Women’s Day men acknowledge the women in their lives, mothers, wives, daughters, colleagues, and offer flowers and small gifts in token of respect and gratitude. After all, women are known as “the most beautiful half of the world.”

Shouldn’t we join the rest of the world and celebrate International Women’s Day here, in North America? This year, acknowledge the women in YOUR life: offer them a flower and let them know how important they are! Women never get tired of hearing it!

Ramona Buda is a contributor to Kids Activities Castle, an online Canadian community where you will find information and ideas regarding children activities and family friendly attractions.

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photo credit: trazomfreak