International Women’s Day, celebrated on 8th March, is a global occasion that recognises the social, economic, cultural, and political contributions of women.
It is also a call to action for accelerating gender equality. With roots in the early 20th-century movements for women’s rights and suffrage, the day has evolved into a worldwide symbol of unity and empowerment.
The origins of International Women’s Day can be traced back to the early 1900s, a time of significant social change. In 1908, amid rapid industrialisation and economic expansion, 15,000 women marched through the Lower East Side of New York City, protesting against child labour and demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and voting rights.
The following year, the Socialist Party of America declared the last Sunday in February as National Woman’s Day, which was observed across the United States. However, it was Clara Zetkin, a German Marxist theorist, activist, and champion of women’s rights, who put forward the idea of an International Women’s Day at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen in 1910. Over 100 women from 17 countries unanimously supported her proposal, paving the way for an international movement.
The first International Women’s Day was celebrated in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with rallies and events demanding women’s right to work, vote, receive training, hold public office, and be free from discrimination. Just days later, the devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in New York City claimed the lives of more than 140 working women, drawing attention to the urgent need for better workplace safety and labour rights; issues that became central to later Women’s Day observances.
Over the years, International Women’s Day has grown into a global day of recognition, embraced by both developed and developing nations. The feminist movement of the 1960s gave it further momentum, and in 1975, the United Nations officially recognised the day, reinforcing its role in the global push for women’s rights.
Today, International Women’s Day is a moment to reflect on the progress made, highlight the work still to be done, and celebrate the courage and determination of ordinary women who have played extraordinary roles in shaping their societies.
At The Bridging Group, Women’s Day holds special significance. We are committed to gender equality, ensuring that half of our team is female and that all employees are treated fairly. Our mission is to create a workplace and a society where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to succeed. Together, we continue to work towards a more inclusive and equal world, celebrating the achievements of women and advocating for a fairer future.
International Women’s Day is not just about celebrating women’s accomplishments. It is a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and the importance of unity, advocacy, and action in driving meaningful change.
Have a wonderful Women’s Day, ladies!