International Women’s Day 2025:Theme, History, Importance, Participation and Gifts
International Women's Day (IWD), is celebrated annually on 8 March, it is a program which celebrates women's social, economic, cultural and political achievements worldwide. It also serves as a rally crying to accelerate gender equality and resolves challenges that continue to face women. From our revolutionary roots to the global influence of our modern-day, let's explore its history and the meaningful ways to participate.
Significance of International Women's Day
International Women's Day is a call to take action to accelerate gender equality. It highlights the contribution of women in the society, raises awareness about discrimination, and promotes equal opportunities in education, work and leadership. The day commemorates the contribution of women, and hence upholds the belief that when the woman flourishes everyone thrives.
Importance of International Women's Day
IWD is much larger than a mere celebration - It defines a movement addressing issues such as pay intervals to governments, organizations and individuals, violence against women and inferiority in the roles of decision -making. By highlighting these challenges, IWD inspires collective progress.
History of International Women's Day
The history of IWD is in the early 20th century. In 1908, 15,000 women marched through the city of New York, demanding a low hour, better salary and right to vote. Inspired by this movement, a German worker, Clara Zetcin proposed an annual International Women's Day at the 1910 International Socialist Women's Conference. The first official IWD was celebrated in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. 1917 gained prominence on 8 March when Russian women staged a strike for "bread and peace" during the First World War, giving the rights of voting for women in Russia. The United Nations officially recognized March 8 as International Women's Day in 1975, strengthening its global importance.
International Women's Day History in India
India began celebrating the IWD in the early 20th century, which was associated with its freedom movement. Leaders like "Sarojini Naidu" and "Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay" advocated women's rights with freedom from British rule. Today, India hosts rallies, workshops and cultural programs to honor the contribution of women in every facet of our society.
What happens on Women's Day?
Globally, people organize marches, panel discussions and art exhibitions. Companies highlight female leaders, while schools teach students about gender equality. Social media campaigns like #MembersEquity or #IWD2025 increases voices worldwide.
Why Do We Celebrate Women's Day on 8 March?
On 8 March 1914, a fixed date was formed when women held rallies on this day in Europe to protest World War -1 and advocate peace. The United Nations officially recognized March 8 as IWD in 1975.
International Women's Day Theme For 2025
Each year, IWD focuses on a specific subject to resolve current challenges.
Recent themes include:
2024: "Invest in women: progress in progress"
2023: "Digital: Innovation and Technology for Sexual Equality"
2022: "Sexual equality today for a permanent tomorrow"
The 2025 Theme for International Women's Day
This Year's theme is “Accelerate Action”, emphasizing the immediate need for progress in gender equality. It highlights major strategies and equipment that empowers women in education, employment and leadership. This topic asks governments, organizations and individuals to eliminate obstacles and work together in creating a more inclusive environment with equal opportunities for women.
Colors and symbols of IWD
Color: Purple (justice and dignity), green (hope), and white (purity) are traditional IWD colors.
Symbol: Venus symbol (♀) and the handicaps raised represent the female and solidarity. Purple ribbons are also used to show solidarity.
International Women's Day slogan
Slogans vary annually, but "Gender equality today for a permanent tomorrow" and #Eachforequal are popular examples.
The slogan of 2025 will align with its theme.
How Do People Celebrate Women's Day: History vs Now
Historically: Initial ceremonies included strikes and political rallies (eg, 1917 Russian women strike for "bread and peace").
Protests and attacks for voting rights, labor laws and peace.
Political rallies seeking gender equality.
Modern Ceremony: Social media campaign: Hashtags like #IWD and #Eachforequal increases voices.
Corporate initiative: Companies host panels, mentorship programs and diversity pledge. Community Program: March, art exhibitions, film screening and workshops. Education: Schools teach students about gender equality and women’s contributions.
Ways to Participate in International Women's Day:
- Educate yourself: Read books or see documentaries about women's rights (eg, "We should all be feminist" by Chimamanda Ngozi Edichi).
- Support women owned businesses: Make local or online shopping.
- Advocate: Share stories of inspirational women on social media.
- Donate: Contribute to donations such as United Nations, women, Malala funds, or local shelters.
- Participate in events: join virtual or in-tradition seminars, rallies or cultural programs.
Also Read:- Lord Shiva Father || Ramakrishna Jayanti || Phulera Dooj
Gifting Ideas for The Women in your Life, on Women's Day
1. Gifts from diviniti.com
- Gift them God Idols, so that the blessings of the lord remain with them
- Presenting car idols to women can serve as a reminder of God’s blessings and Guidance, always accompany them,
- You can gift them wall mount of Durga Maa, as an inspiration
- Jewelry box
- Photo frames
- Home décor
2. Personal jewelry with empowering messages.
3. Books by women writers (eg, Malala Yusufzai or Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi).
4. Donations for donations such as United Nations women or local shelters.
5. Handwritten notes appreciate their impact.
6. Self-care kit (candles, skincare, magazines).
Awareness Activities on Women's Day
- Discuss women's issues, host a film screening or book club.
- Organize a fundraiser for girls education programs
- Share stories of local heroines on social media.
- Conduct the workplace seminar on gender inclusion.
Onward Journey of IWD
While progress has been made - up to strong laws against discrimination due to increase in female leadership - the journey of complete equality continues. International Women's Day reminds us that change is possible when we stand together. Whether through activism, education, or everyday tasks, everyone can contribute to a world where gender no longer limits capacity. Let's celebrate women today, tomorrow, and every day!
FAQ’s
Q1. Why is IWD on 8 March?
A. It marks 1914 women's peace protests during WWI.
Q2. How can I participate in IWD 2025?
A. Participate in events, share online materials, or support women owned businesses.
Q3. What does IWD colors mean?
A. Purple = justice, green = hope, white = purity.
Q4. Is there a different subject every year?
A. Yes, subjects focus on current gender equality challenges.
Q5. What is the difference between IWD and women's history month?
A. IWD (8 March) is the same day; Women's History Month (All March) historically celebrates the contribution of women.
Q6. Which country celebrates IWD as a national holiday?
A. Countries like Russia, Uganda and Afghanistan recognize it as a public holiday.
Q7. What is the difference between IWD and women's history month?
A. IWD is one day (March 8), while women's history month (March) celebrates the contribution of women in the entire history.
Q8. Why can men support IWD?
A. Equality to advocate challenging stereotypes and increase the voices of women.
