The day has its origins in the early 20th century labor movements in North America and Europe. The first official International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
Common symbols include the color purple, which represents justice and dignity, and the Venus symbol (♀), which signifies female gender.
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Each year, International Women’s Day has a specific theme. For example, themes in recent years have included “Choose to Challenge” (2021) and “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality” (2023). Events on International Women’s Day include rallies, conferences, performances, and social media campaigns. Many organizations and communities host events to highlight women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality.
The idea of an International Women's Day first arose at the turn of the century, which in the industrialized world was a period of expansion and turbulence, booming population growth, and radical ideologies. International Women’s Day is recognized globally, with events and activities taking place in many countries. It’s an opportunity for people to reflect on progress made toward gender equality and to push for further change.
Events and Celebrations
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Workshops and Seminars:
- Organizations, universities, and NGOs often hold workshops, seminars, and panel discussions on topics related to women’s rights, gender equality, and women’s health.
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Cultural Programs:
- Many institutions and cultural organizations host performances, art exhibitions, and film screenings that highlight women’s experiences and achievements.
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Community Outreach:
- NGOs and community groups may conduct outreach programs to raise awareness about issues like domestic violence, sexual harassment, and women’s empowerment.
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Social Media Campaigns:
- Online campaigns using hashtags like #InternationalWomensDay, #IWD, or #WomensDayIndia aim to engage people in discussions about gender equality and share stories of inspiring women.
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Recognition Awards:
- Awards and recognitions may be given to women who have made significant contributions to their communities or fields of work.
Notable Organizations and Initiatives
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UN Women India:
- UN Women India organizes events and campaigns to promote gender equality and support women’s rights across the country.
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The Indian Women’s Network (IWN):
- Part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), IWN works to support women in the workforce through various programs and initiatives.
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Breakthrough India:
- This NGO focuses on human rights and social justice, running campaigns and programs to address issues like gender-based violence.
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Tata Steel's Women Empowerment Initiatives:
- Tata Steel and other corporate entities often run programs for women’s leadership, skill development, and career advancement.
Famous Celebrations
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India Habitat Centre, Delhi:
- Known for hosting high-profile discussions, exhibitions, and performances related to International Women’s Day.
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Mumbai Women’s March:
- An annual event featuring a march, speeches, and cultural performances aimed at advocating for women’s rights and gender equality.
Since those early years, International Women's Day has assumed a new global dimension for women in developed and developing countries alike. The growing international women's movement, which has been strengthened by four global United Nations women's conferences, has helped make the commemoration a rallying point for coordinated efforts to demand women's rights and participation in the political and economic process. Increasingly, International Women s Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change, and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of women's rights.
इस आर्टिकल को हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहां क्लिक करें