Happy International Women’s Day from Flourish! Since its official acceptance by the United Nations in 1975, every March 8th we celebrate the efforts and achievements of women around the world. While it was officially accepted fairly recently, the roots of International Women’s Day (IWD) dates back over 100 years.
Historical Roots
IWD dates back to the 1908 garment workers strike, which was a protest that lasted over a year. On March 8th, 1908, over 15,000 women garment workers, many of whom were immigrants, took to the streets and marched through New York City’s Lower East Side. This march was honoring a similar march that took place in 1857 on the same date. When they reached Union Square, they had a rally at Union Square, where they demanded equal rights, including equal pay and voting rights. Inspired by the March 8th events, a series of social protests and working class rebellions followed, including the Uprising of 20,000 in New York, and several others throughout the world.
IWD 2022
This year’s IWD theme is “Break the Bias”. Set by InternationalWomensDay.com, this theme works on individual and collective levels. As they describe it:
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.
Learn More
Even though IWD 2022 has passed, there are many ways that you can continue to show your support for women. Post a picture on social media using the hashtag #BreakTheBias, and strike the IWD 2022 pose. Education is also a key way to help further women’s rights, both for adults and children.
For Kids:
- Download the IWD 2022 Gender and Women’s Rights Activity Pack
- PBS Learning has a great collection of videos and activities
- Visit the Girl Museum online
For Adults:
- Learn by auditing a free class on women’s rights
- Stay up to date on current events with the Human Rights Watch Women’s Rights page
We hope that you had an incredible International Women’s Day, and we collectively celebrate women’s value and achievements, and will continue to strive to #BreakTheBias.