Society and Culture

How Did You Celebrate International Women’s Day?

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Every year on March 8, organizations and individuals recognize what is known as International Women’s Day, during which thousands of celebrations take place across the world, recognizing all that women have achieved socially, economically, and politically. What started in 1911 in only three European countries has since grown into a global call for gender equality–and yet a better question for my title might be: Have You Heard of International Women’s Day? And if you have, did you contribute or did you let it pass by? The good news is, it is never too late to celebrate womankind.

As all good celebrations do, IWD always has a theme. This year’s was “Make It Happen,” focusing on the fight for women’s rights in every country. It acknowledges that in every aspect of a country’s social, economic, and political platforms: women matter. Equal rights for every gender, for every sexual orientation, and for every race, are long overdue.‪ International Women’s Day is not just for women, it is for everyone.

Marches for gender equality took place in New York City, London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Mexico City, and in countries like Nepal, India, Morocco, Nicaragua, Turkey, the Philippines, China, and Indonesia. Events ranged from “Ladies Nights Out” to award ceremonies for women who have gone above and beyond. Millions took to social media with hashtags like #InternationalWomensDay, #MakeItHappen, and #PaintItPurple.

It is incredibly inspiring to see so many men and women band together to make something trend on Twitter and Facebook. But International Women’s Day is just one day, and while it inspires millions to act, until we achieve equal rights every day should be Women’s Day.

And to those misogynists who are annoyed and frustrated by the love shown for women today, don’t worry! There is an International Men’s Day in November. They may be disappointed to find out, though, that the whole point of that day is to, among other things, “focus on…improving gender relations, promoting gender equality, and highlighting positive male role models.” So, in reality, both days dedicated to both genders are about gender equality. How can we celebrate?

Make. It. Happen.

Morgan McMurray
Morgan McMurray
Morgan McMurray is an editor and gender equality blogger based in Seattle, Washington. A 2013 graduate of Iowa State University, she has a Bachelor of Arts in English, Journalism, and International Studies. She spends her free time writing, reading, teaching dance classes, and binge-watching Netflix. Contact Morgan at staff@LawStreetMedia.com.
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