INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Women’s Day

Join us in recognizing the incredible achievements of women across the globe, with a special focus on gender equality.

MAR8

Monday, March 8Every year on March 8

days to go

Roots: First celebrated in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland
Vibe: A day of advocacy, celebration, and reflection
Also on Mar 8: Daylight Saving Time · Daylight Saving Time Begins · I Am Day
Hashtag: #InternationalWomen8217sDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Celebrate the women

Thank the women in your family with a call or a card.

WITH FRIENDS

Support women-owned businesses

Shop or dine at women-owned spots in your neighborhood.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Amplify a colleague

Praise a woman coworker's work publicly today.

Fast facts

Women remain underrepresented in management roles around the world

2024As of 2024, women working full time earned about 81 cents for every dollar men earned in the U.S.

The story

International Women's Day has evolved over the past century into a global movement advocating for women's rights and equality. It was first celebrated in 1911, driven by the suffragist movement in Europe and the United States. Today, it serves not just as a celebration but also as a rallying point for change, drawing attention to issues like pay equity and gender-based violence.

Read the full story

In the United States, the day is marked by various events, from marches to conferences, reflecting a diverse array of voices advocating for women’s rights. Organizations and communities come together to celebrate women's achievements across different sectors, including politics, business, and the arts. Each year, a specific theme guides the celebrations, focusing on pressing issues regarding women's rights.

This day is also a time for reflection, an opportunity to acknowledge the challenges that women continue to face globally. From lack of access to education to the fight against gender-based violence, the obstacles are numerous. Yet, progress is being made, and International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the importance of advocacy and support.

As the world continues to change, the spirit of International Women's Day remains steadfast. It emphasizes that every individual has a role to play in promoting gender equality and empowering women. Whether through community engagement or personal reflection, this day calls on everyone to contribute to a more equitable future.

Did you know?

First International Women's Day

The first International Women's Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.

UN Involvement

The United Nations began celebrating International Women's Day on March 8 in 1975, during International Women's Year.

Color Symbolism

Purple, green, and white are the colors associated with International Women's Day, symbolizing justice and dignity.

Global Theme

Every year, a specific theme is chosen for International Women's Day to focus global attention on particular issues.

Women in Leadership

Only 29% of senior leadership roles globally are held by women, highlighting ongoing disparities.

U.S. Women's March

The Women's March on Washington in 2017 was one of the largest single-day protests in U.S. history.

Historical Figures

Notable women such as Susan B. Anthony and Malala Yousafzai have played crucial roles in the fight for women's rights.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesThe U.S. has its own unique ways of celebrating, including events focused on women's rights and achievements.
CACanadaCanada recognizes International Women's Day with various events and initiatives promoting gender equality.
GBUnited KingdomIn the UK, events range from panel discussions to community gatherings, fostering dialogue on women's issues.
AUAustraliaAustralia celebrates with marches, educational workshops, and community activities highlighting women's contributions.
INIndiaIn India, International Women's Day is marked by campaigns and public awareness initiatives addressing women's rights.
ZASouth AfricaSouth Africa observes the day with various events aimed at empowering women and addressing social injustices.