International Women's Day 2025 - Accelerate Action

International Women’s Day (IWD) has been celebrated since 1911 to honour women’s achievements, challenge discrimination, and push for gender equality.

Advocacy for women’s rights dates back centuries. In 1776, Abigail Adams urged America’s founding leaders to consider women’s inclusion in the nation’s laws, and in 1857, women workers in New York staged a strike demanding fair working conditions, decent wages, and equal rights. However, the movement for gender equality gained significant momentum in the early 20th century. In 1909 and 1910, political groups in the U.S. and Germany proposed an annual Women’s Day, leading to the first official celebration on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. By 1921, March 8 became the globally recognised date for IWD.

Be strong, be fearless, be beautiful. And believe that anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you. - Misty Copeland (Ballet Dancer)

This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ highlights the urgency of closing the gender gap, which, at the current pace, may persist until 2158. To drive real change, we must challenge bias, confront discrimination, and celebrate women’s successes.

International Women’s Day is for everyone and any activity, big or small, helps make the day inclusive and meaningful. Each year, IWD events take place worldwide, from community gatherings and conferences to fun runs, festivals, and online discussions. These events, hosted by women’s networks, companies, charities, and other organizations, offer a variety of ways to get involved. If you're interested in attending, explore available events (many virtual ones are free!) - International Women's Day - Events. 

I think realising that you’re not alone, that you are standing with millions of your sisters around the world is vital. - Malala Yousafzai (Activist)

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come in the fight for gender equality and to recognise the incredible achievements of women around the world. But it’s also a reminder that there is still work to be done. By acknowledging progress while continuing to challenge inequality, we can all play a part in accelerating change. So let’s honour the successes, uplift one another, and keep pushing for a future where true equality is a reality for everyone!

There's nothing a man can do, that I can't do better and in heels. - Ginger Rogers (Actress & Dancer)

Source: International Women's Day