As a woman-owned business, we take great pride in honouring female entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers. Equally, International Women’s Day (IWD) has taken on special significance for many women trailblazers worldwide. It serves as a focal point for acknowledging their contributions across various industries; is a vital platform for raising awareness about gender discrimination, violence against women, and economic disparities; and highlighting the importance of inclusion and representation.
History of IWD
In recent years, IWD has evolved into a global movement, sparking conversations and actions that continue to shape policies and attitudes toward gender equality. Its roots however trace back to the early 20th century.
The first National Women’s Day was observed in 1909 in New York, US, commemorating the 1908 garment workers’ strike, where women protested poor working conditions and demanded shorter hours, better pay, and voting rights. It gained momentum from other labour movements in North America and Europe and reflected a growing call for women’s equal participation in society.
According to the Government of Canada, International Women’s Day first took place on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. That day, more than a million women and men attended public events to show their support. The tradition expanded globally, gaining momentum during the Russian Revolution of 1917 when women in St. Petersburg went on strike and soon after were granted the right to vote. Other countries began to observe and celebrate the day in the years that followed.
The United Nations recognized 1975 as International Women’s Year and began celebrating March 8 as International Women’s Day, in support of women’s rights and world peace.
Honouring Women
There are several ways to honour the women in our lives on IWD and throughout the year, including:
- Showing appreciation: Take the time to thank the women in your life for their contributions, whether they are family members, friends, colleagues, or mentors. A simple gesture of gratitude can go a long way.
- Educating yourself: Educate yourself about the issues that affect women and girls around the world. Learn about the challenges they face and how you can help create a more equitable society.
- Speaking up: Use your voice to advocate for gender equality. Highlight women’s achievements, offer mentorship opportunities, and create an environment that values diversity, inclusion, and respect.
- Supporting women-owned businesses: Consider purchasing products or services from women-owned businesses to support female entrepreneurs and contribute to economic empowerment.
- Getting involved: Join organizations or initiatives that support women’s rights and gender equality. Volunteer, donate, or participate in events that raise awareness and promote positive change.
- Showcasing talent: Businesses can use IWD as an opportunity to celebrate the talent and expertise of women within their company. This could include highlighting female leaders, featuring success stories, or organizing panel discussions with female thought leaders.
International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the progress made but also acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. It is a powerful opportunity for women-run businesses specifically. They can play a crucial role in driving change towards a more equitable world and contributing to the global conversation on women’s rights. By taking action to support gender equality, we can all contribute to a more inclusive world.
