- 1.International Women’s Day (IWD) is a special day that celebrates the achievements of women. These include social, political, cultural, and economic successes. Countries and organizations all over the world celebrate this day on March 8.
- 2.The first International Women’s Day took place in 1911. Over one million people participated. This included people from Switzerland, Austria, Germany, and Denmark. The first Women’s Day included both marches and parades.
- 3.Every country celebrates IWD in its own special way. For example, in Belarus and Vietnam, it is a national holiday. In China and Madagascar, it is an official holiday for women only. In other countries, such as Cameroon, Bulgaria, and Chile, it is an unofficial holiday. The custom of men giving flowers and small gifts to women to celebrate womanhood is common in many countries.
- 4.Every year, International Women’s Day has a different theme. Past themes include ending violence against women, improving equality for women, and helping women in prison. The International Red Cross often helps organize talks and events on the themes. In 2011, on the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day, US President Barack Obama announced that March would be Women’s History Month. He encouraged Americans to think deeply about the important achievements of women in shaping the history of the country.