It is no secret that the future belongs to women, and March is designated as Women’s History Month around the world, with International Women’s Day honouring women’s cultural, political, and social achievements. The day is a plea for a world free of bias, stereotyping, and discrimination, one that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive, and one that values and celebrates differences.
It’s no secret that women hold the future, which is why March is designated as Women’s History Month around the world, with International Women’s Day honouring women’s cultural, political, and social accomplishments. The day is a call for a world free of prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination; one that is diverse, equal, and inclusive; and one that values and celebrates individual diversity.
The United Nations Charter was the first international accord to recognise the ideal of equality between men and women in 1945, but the UN did not commemorate its first official International Women’s Day until March 8, 1975, during International Women’s Year.
In December 1977, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution declaring a United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace, to be marked by Member States on any day of the year, in accordance with their historical and national traditions. Finally, once the United Nations adopted International Women’s Day in 1977, it became a mainstream global holiday, with member states asked to declare March 8 as an official UN holiday promoting women’s rights.
“International Women’s Day is an occasion to celebrate progress toward gender equality and women’s empowerment, as well as to critically reflect on those accomplishments and strive for a greater momentum toward gender equality globally,” according to UNESCO. It’s a day to celebrate women’s outstanding achievements and to unite as a force to push gender equality around the world.”
The topic for this year’s commemoration is “Gender equality now for a sustainable tomorrow,” in honour of the women and girls who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation and response, as well as their leadership and contribution to a sustainable future.
