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

Questions surround sudden exit of St Euphemia College principal Penny Pachos

The Greek Herald can exclusively reveal that St Euphemia College principal Penny Pachos is no longer employed by the College.

A century in print: The Greek Herald celebrates 100 years at NSW Parliament

There was something fitting about The Greek Herald celebrating its 100th birthday inside NSW Parliament House.

Giant Cretan Lyra set for Guinness World record recognition

A massive Cretan lyra has been unveiled in southern Crete as its creators pursue a Guinness World Records title.

Mark Bouris shares his plan to live to 100

Businessman Mark Bouris says his goal of living to 100 is driven by family, health and science-backed habits rather than extreme biohacking trends, according...

Jo Boutros loses 40kg and launches healthy eating guide

Balancing family responsibilities, university, and three jobs, she developed unhealthy habits and struggled with binge eating in secret.

You May Also Like

Theo Maras shares plans for new Adelaide Central Market

The founder of development company the Maras Group will next month take the reins of the Adelaide Central Market Authority on a three-year contract.

Novak Djokovic defeats Nick Kyrgios to win Wimbledon final

Novak Djokovic defeated Nick Kyrgios on Sunday night to claim a seventh Wimbledon men's singles title, and 21st grand slam title overall.

The Hellenic Initiative and HOPEgenesis tackle Greece’s population issue

HOPEgenesis is a Greek non-profit organisation active in the field of medicine and social welfare that addresses the major issue of Greece’s low birth...