International Women’s Day 2023

Spurred on by the universal female suffrage movement that had begun in New Zealand, IWD originated from labour movements in North America and Europe during the early 20th century.

The earliest version was a “Women’s Day” organised by the Socialist Party of America in New York City February 28, 1909. This inspired German delegates at the 1910 International Socialist Women’s Conference to propose “a special Women’s Day” be held annually, albeit with no set date; the following year saw the first demonstrations and commemorations of International Women’s Day across Europe.

After women gained suffrage in Soviet Russia in 1917, IWD was made a national holiday on March 8; it was subsequently celebrated on that date by the socialist movement and communist countries.

IWD became a mainstream global holiday following its adoption by the United Nations in 1977.

International Women’s Day is celebrated in a variety of ways worldwide; it is a public holiday in several countries and observed socially or locally in others to celebrate and promote the achievements of women.

The UN observes the holiday in connection with a particular issue, campaign, or theme in women’s rights. In some parts of the world, IWD still reflects its political origins, being marked by protests, and calls for radical change; in other areas, it is largely social and centred on a celebration of womanhood.

International Women’s Day 2023 campaign theme: #EmbraceEquity

For International Women’s Day and beyond, let’s all fully #EmbraceEquity. Equity isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society’s DNA and it’s critical to understand the difference between equity and equality.

The IWD 2023 campaign theme drives worldwide understanding why Equal opportunities aren’t enough! We can all play a part, each one of us can actively support and embrace equity within our own sphere of influence.

We can all challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias, and seek inclusion. Collective activism is what drives change. From grassroots action to wide-scale momentum, we can all embrace equity. Forging gender equity isn’t limited to women solely fighting the good fight. Allies are incredibly important for the social, economic, cultural, and political advancement of women.

Everyone everywhere can play a part. All IWD activity is valid. That’s what makes IWD so inclusive. Together, we can all forge positive change.

When we embrace equity, we embrace diversity, and we embrace inclusion. We embrace equity to forge harmony and unity, and to help drive success everyone. Equality is the goal, and equity is the means to get there. Through the process of equity, we can reach equality.

Embracing equity is the right thing to do. Don’t just say it, think it, be it, do it. Truly embrace it. Embrace equity in all its forms. Encourage and rally your friends, family, colleagues, and community to embrace equity. Together we can work collectively to impact positive change. Together we can all help forge an equal world. Let’s all embrace equity today, and always.

Please post all over your socials about how you, your friends, your family, and workplace are supporting IWD and make sure to use #EmbraceEquity. Please tag our social media platforms too so we can see all what you have been up to!

If you are free during the day on 8th March 2023, please come along and join our team 11am-1pm at the reception of Allia Business Centre, London Rd, Peterborough, PE2 8AN to celebrate women, learn more about our services and eat cake!