Everything you ever wanted to know about International Women's Day: its origin and impact.

The world will come together to celebrate International Women’s Day 2024 (IWD)on March 8, to highlight the women's rights movement. This significant day sheds light on critical issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and combating violence against women. The roots of IWD can be traced back over a century to labor movements in North America and Europe during the early 20th century.

International Womens day facts:

The roots of  of International Womens Day are said to have originated in 1908. The momentum of women's oppression and inequality drove women to engage actively in advocating for change. This culminated in a historic event, when 15,000 women marched through the streets of New York City, demanding reduced working hours, fairer wages, and the right to vote.

In 1910, the second International Conference of Working Women convened in Copenhagen. Among the attendees was Clara Zetkin, leader of the 'Women's Office' for the Social Democratic Party in Germany, who introduced the concept of International Women's Day.

Zetkin suggested the concept of a unified women’s day celebrated on the same date globally. This proposal received unanimous approval, leading to the establishment of International Women’s Day as we know it today. This idea garnered unanimous support from the conference's diverse assembly of over 100 women representing 17 countries. Notably, it included the first three women elected to the Finnish parliament. Thus, International Women's Day was born as a collective initiative of women's organisations, and parties.

A pivotal moment occurred in 1917 during the Russian Provisional Government when women gained suffrage. In recognition of this milestone, International Women’s Day was designated a national holiday on March 8. Interestingly, the date of March 8 for International Women's Day wasn't the original choice. It emerged from a wartime strike by Russian women in 1917, which commenced on Thursday, February 23, corresponding to March 8 in the Gregorian calendar. The date has since become synonymous with commemorating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide.

International Women's Day gained mainstream recognition as a global holiday after its adoption by the United Nations in 1977.

Today, it is observed in various countries worldwide, promoting the achievements of women and addressing pressing issues related to women's rights.

International Women's day in the UK

In the UK, International Women's Day (IWD) is observed with various events, activities, and initiatives that celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness about gender equality, and highlight ongoing challenges. Here are some aspects of International Women's Day in the UK that women may find interesting:

 UK has a rich history of women's activism, and International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the suffragette movement's struggles for women's voting rights in the early 20th century. Women in the UK gained the right to vote in 1918, and IWD often reflects this historical achievement.

 Across the U.K, various events are organised to celebrate IWD. These include panel discussions, workshops, lectures, and artistic performances, providing women with opportunities to connect, share experiences, and be inspired by the achievements of others. Events often highlight the achievements and challenges faced by women of different ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, abilities, and sexual orientations.

Here in London we are planning our own event for women to come together and mark the day, but we’ve made some other suggestions for events you could hold yourself too.

Find more event suggestions here

 Corporate Engagement- International Women's Day

Many businesses and organisations in the UK actively participate in International Women's Day. They organise internal events, workshops, and discussions on gender equality in the workplace. This involvement helps raise awareness and promotes positive changes in corporate culture.

 Community Activism

Local communities actively participate in IWD, organising marches, rallies, and community events. These activities provide a platform for grassroots activism, allowing women to voice concerns, celebrate achievements, and advocate for positive change at the local level.

For women in the UK, International Women's Day is an opportunity to connect with a broader community, gain insights into the history of women's rights, and contribute to ongoing conversations about gender equality and empowerment. It serves as a reminder that progress is made through collective efforts and continued advocacy.

As we celebrate International Women's Day, it is essential to acknowledge the historical journey that has led to this global recognition.

Uniting people in the pursuit of gender equality, justice, and empowerment for all women and girls.

You could use your social media  to celebrate the day, celebrate your own story to empower others or participate in a global conversation. Use the hashtag #Inspireinclusion to share your own content this year. Follow us and tag us on instagram @thebridgelondon

 To get you started this year, here are some inspirational quotes for  you to use  during International Women’s Day 2024;

• Empowered women empower women. Together, we rise, inspire, and pave the way for a future where every woman's potential knows no bounds. Happy International Women's Day!

• Here's to strong women: may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.

• On International Women's Day, let's celebrate the strength, resilience, and boundless potential within each of us. Together, we can create a world where every woman's voice is heard, and every dream is within reach.