Ten things to be aware of on International Women's Day

Today, March 8, is International Women's Day (2024), and as always, there is a greater emphasis on the progress that has been made in the continuous fight for gender equality. 

According to the IWD website, the theme for this year's campaign is #InspireInclusion. We can all #InspireInclusion when we work together. 

Communities from throughout the world come together to celebrate women's accomplishments, challenge gender stereotypes, and discuss the many challenges women still face in the world. In this article, PUNCH Online presents ten things you should know about International Women's Day: 

1. Origin and Historical Roots: The labor and socialist movements of the early 20th century are the source of International Women's Day (IWD). On February 28, 1909, the Socialist organization in the United States organized the first National Women's Day. At the 1910 International Women's Conference, the idea of making it an international event gained traction. 

2. Celebration Date: Every year on March 8, people recognize the accomplishments and contributions made by women throughout the world. This date was formally recognized by the UN in 1977, designating it as a global day of honor for women. 

3.3. United Nations Recognition: Established as an official United Nations Day of Observance in 1977, International Women's Day provides a forum for discussing issues related to women's rights and gender equality. Each year, the focus of the event is altered to align with current concerns.

4. Global Theme: Every year, International Women's Day takes on a global theme that reflects current issues. Past themes have included "Choose to Challenge," "Press for Progress," and "Equality for Women is Progress for All."

 5 . Purple Symbolism: Acknowledged as the official color of International Women's Day, purple symbolizes justice and dignity. Connected to the feminist movement since the early 1900s, it represents the ongoing pursuit of gender equality. Related News: IWD: First Lady seeks more investment in women IWD: Women living with HIV/AIDS lament discrimination A thought for the childless woman on International Women's Day 2024  

6. Women's Rights and Suffrage: Intimately linked to the struggle for women's rights and suffrage, International Women's Day has served as a forum for promoting voting rights and opposing

7.seven. The logo for International Women's Day represents unity and the ongoing fight for women's rights. It is akin to the female gender sign with a raised fist. 

8. Worldwide Celebrations: Across the globe, several nations mark and commemorate International Women's Day. Cultural performances, talks, marches, and rallies are a few of the events that help spread awareness of gender equality. 

9. 2024 campaign topic: #InspireInclusion is the theme for International Women's Day in 2024. Through fostering empathy and valuing women's participation, we help to improve the world. Women feel a deep feeling of empowerment, significance, and belonging when they are encouraged to embrace inclusivity. Together, let's create a world that is more welcoming to women. 

10. Persistent Obstacles: In spite of progress, women around the world still encounter obstacles, such as increasing gender-based violence, salary disparities, restricted access to healthcare and education, and a lack of representation in positions of leadership. The day of International Women's Day is a sad reminder of the continuous work needed to attain true gender equality.