Why do we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8?

·

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8 every year and is a focal point in the movement for women’s rights.

But why do we celebrate on March 8?

The UN began celebrating International Women’s Day in the International Women’s Year – 1975. In 1977, the UN General Assembly invited member states to proclaim March 8 as the UN Day for women’s rights and world peace.

In Australia, International Women’s Day has been informally celebrated since the early 1920s.

International Women’s Day rally, Melbourne 1975.

The first Australian IWD rally, organised by the Militant Women’s Movement of the Communist Party of Australia, took place on March 25, 1928 in the Sydney Domain.

IWD gained momentum in Australia around the time of the Second World War. Activists such as Jessie Street campaigned for women’s rights as workers because women at the time were often paid only 54 percent of men’s wages.

These days, International Women’s Day is marked in Australia with a diverse array of events including marches, rallies and fundraising events.

Source: SAGE.

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Greek Australian Writers’ Festival marks record-breaking success in its fifth year

The Greek Australian Writers’ Festival, presented as part of the Greek Festival of Sydney, has concluded its most successful edition to date.

Sydney Harbour cruise to bring Pontian community together during Synapantema

The Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia will host a Sydney Harbour cruise on Sunday, April 26 as part of Synapantema.

St George Saints deliver statement win in Youth League return

St George’s Youth League Men Red side made a return to the court on Saturday, producing a dominant 133–33 victory over the Orange Eagles.

Battle of Vevi commemoration in Sydney blends remembrance, reflection and education

The Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW marked the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Vevi with a detailed and moving commemorative event.

Bank of Sydney Grant for Good applications now open in Australia

Bank of Sydney has announced applications are now open for its $20,000 Grant for Good community grant. Find out how to apply here.

You May Also Like

Family pays tribute to shark attack victim Mercury Psillakis

The family of Mercury Psillakis has described him as “impossible not to love” and a man who “placed family above everything else”.

Australia enforces historic under-16 social media ban

Australia’s world-first ban on social media for under-16s has taken effect, prompting platforms to remove young users’ accounts.

Cyprus, Artsakh, Rhodes, Israel: In unity there is strength

The Cyprus 50th Anniversary Action Group announced its main commemoration will be held on Sunday, July 21 at Federation Square in Melbourne.