Understanding International Women's Day: Its Origins and Evolving Significance
March 8 is widely recognized as Women's Day, but it is more accurately referred to as International Women's Day. This day serves not just as a celebration of women's rights and the social, political, and economic achievements that women have gained over the years, but also as a stark reminder of the ongoing gender inequalities, stereotypes, discrimination, and violence that persist around the world.
The journey of International Women's Day did not begin on March 8th. Its origins trace back to February 28, 1909, in the United States, initiated by the American Socialist Party amid a period of significant social unrest. Women were increasingly vocal about their rights, with a notable march in 1908 where 15,000 women demanded shorter working hours, better pay, and, most crucially, the right to vote.
The idea of a dedicated day for women gained traction at the 1910 Socialist International convened in Copenhagen, led by Clara Zetkin, a politician from Germany's Social Democratic Party. Although the proposal sought to establish an International Women's Day, a consensus on a specific date was never reached. In the U.S., the last Sunday of February was maintained, while in European countries, March 18 to 19 was often chosen to commemorate significant historical events.
Over time, various myths have emerged regarding the holiday's origin. One of the most prevalent inaccuracies states that International Women's Day was created in memory of a tragic fire that killed hundreds of female factory workers in New York on March 8, 1908. This fire did not occur; the actual catastrophe happened later, in March 1911, claiming 140 lives, mainly of immigrant women. Thus, the holiday cannot be directly tied to such historical events, though they became emblematic of the broader fight for workers' rights. Another myth suggests it commemorates a labor protest by female textile workers in 1857, which similarly lacks historical validity.
The first celebration of Women’s Day on March 8 took place in 1914, and it wasn't until 1917 that a significant demonstration occurred on this date in Russia, where women protested against the ongoing World War I. Their actions contributed to the abdication of the Tsar four days later and subsequently, the granting of voting rights to women by the provisional government. This momentous event is considered one of the first notable actions leading to the February Revolution. In 1922, after the Bolshevik Revolution, March 8 was established as an official holiday by Vladimir Lenin.
In Italy, March 8 maintained strong ties to leftist politics well into the 1970s. The Fascist regime diminished its recognition, but after World War II, the day began to be acknowledged again, despite hostility from certain political factions. Italy is distinctive in its tradition of gifting mimosa flowers to women on this day, a practice rooted in the bloom of these flowers during this time of year and revered by partisan groups.
Official recognition of International Women’s Day by the United Nations only occurred in 1975, with themes assigned annually starting in 1996. The themes often reflect pressing global issues related to women's rights and empowerment. For example, the chosen theme for 2025 is 'For ALL women and girls: rights, equality, empowerment.' Additionally, the UN also established November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women in 1999.
In recent years, International Women's Day has shifted from a purely celebratory occasion to one steeped in political meaning. Around the world, feminist movements are organizing social and political strikes that extend beyond traditional work stoppages. These strikes encompass all forms of activity, including informal work, caregiving, and consumer participation, aiming to combat gender stereotypes, male violence, and gender-based injustices.
In Italy, instances of women's mobilization have become increasingly pronounced, highlighted by massive protests against violence towards women. An exemplar moment was seen in November 2023, following the tragic femicide of Giulia Cecchettin, which galvanized public awareness and activism surrounding women's safety and rights. As we approach another March 8th, it is vital to honor both the historical significance and the contemporary relevance of International Women's Day, championing the ongoing fight for equality and justice for all women.
Related Sources: