The Origins of International Women’s Day

Where and When It All Began

International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than just a date on the calendar — it’s a global movement rooted in history, resilience, and the fight for equality. The very first National Women’s Day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909, organized by the Socialist Party of America to honor the 1908 garment workers’ strike in New York.

The idea soon gained international traction. In 1910, at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed that a day be set aside annually to campaign for women’s rights. The motion was unanimously approved, and in 1911, the first official International Women’s Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.

Key Milestones in Women’s Rights History

Over the decades, International Women’s Day has evolved alongside the global women’s rights movement.

• 1917 – Russia: Women textile workers staged a strike for “bread and peace,” helping spark the Russian Revolution. This event led to women in Russia gaining the right to vote.
• 1975 – United Nations: The UN officially recognized and began celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8.
• 2000s Onwards: The focus expanded to include a broader range of issues — from gender pay gaps and political representation to education and reproductive rights.

Why International Women’s Day Matters More Than Ever

Celebrating Women’s Achievements Globally

International Women’s Day 2025 is a time to honor women’s achievements across politics, science, business, art, and everyday life. From the groundbreaking research of Marie Curie to the leadership of Jacinda Ardern, women have consistently reshaped the world for the better.

This day is not only about celebration but also about raising awareness of the work still to be done — ensuring that every woman and girl has equal access to opportunities, safety, and dignity.

The Role of Women's Empowerment in Society

Women empowerment is central to sustainable development. Empowered women create stronger communities, better economies, and more inclusive societies. By breaking down barriers — whether they are cultural, economic, or political — women help build a future where equality is the norm, not the exception.

Women’s Month – Celebrating All of August

Why South Africa Dedicates a Month to Women

While International Women’s Day is observed globally on March 8, South Africa extends the celebration through the entire month of August. This is in tribute to 9 August 1956, when more than 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest the apartheid government’s pass laws.

This historic march, led by Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn, has become a symbol of women’s courage and unity. Women’s Month in South Africa honors their legacy while addressing modern challenges facing women today.

How to Celebrate Women’s Month

• Attend empowerment events — Workshops, panels, and networking events that focus on women in leadership.
• Support women-owned businesses — Shop local and amplify women entrepreneurs.
• Educate and advocate — Share resources about gender equality on social media.
• Mentor and uplift — Offer guidance to young women in your community.

Inspiring Women Leaders Who Changed the World

Historical Icons

• Rosa Parks (USA) – Sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and became an icon of civil rights.
• Wangari Maathai (Kenya) – Nobel Peace Prize laureate for environmental activism.
• Frida Kahlo (Mexico) – Artist whose work challenged norms and celebrated female identity.

Modern Changemakers

• Malala Yousafzai (Pakistan) – Education activist and youngest Nobel laureate.
• Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Nigeria) – First female Director-General of the World Trade Organization.
• Greta Thunberg (Sweden) – Environmental activist inspiring a global youth movement.

The Future of Women’s Equality and Empowerment

As we look to the future, the fight for women’s rights continues. Equal pay, reproductive rights, protection from gender-based violence, and access to education remain urgent priorities. International Women’s Day and Women’s Month are not just commemorations — they are calls to action for individuals, organizations, and governments.

FAQs

1. When is International Women’s Day 2025?
It will be celebrated globally on March 8, 2025.

2. Why do we celebrate Women’s Month in August?
In South Africa, August commemorates the 1956 Women’s March against apartheid pass laws.

3. Who started International Women’s Day?
It was proposed by Clara Zetkin in 1910 at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen.

4. How can I celebrate Women’s Month?
Attend events, support women-led businesses, mentor young women, and share educational resources.

International Women’s Day and Women’s Month are not just about looking back at history — they’re about inspiring the future. Each conversation you start, each woman-owned business you support, and each young girl you encourage adds to a global movement that is shaping a fairer, more inclusive world. Let’s not limit our celebration to a single day or month — let’s carry the spirit of empowerment, respect, and unity into every action we take, all year round. Together, we can make equality not just an ideal, but a lived reality for every woman, everywhere.

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Read our Blog about 9 Ways to Support Women Entrepreneurs in South Africa