International Women's Day 2025: A Call for Global Action

Many might think of March 8th as just another date on the calendar. However, for countless women and allies around the world, it's a crucial moment. It’s a time to celebrate and continue advocating for women's rights, and an opportunity to unite as part of International Women's Day.

This annual observance is more than just a single day. International Women's Day represents how far we've come and serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done.

The History Of International Women's Day

The origins of this day trace back over a century, to 1908. At that time, 15,000 women marched through New York City, demanding improved working conditions, better pay, and the right to vote.

The following year, the Socialist Party of America established the first National Women's Day. Subsequently, in 1910, Clara Zetkin, at a conference, proposed the concept of an *international* day for women. In 1911, over a million people across Europe participated in rallies.

The United Nations officially designated March 8th as International Women's Day in 1975, during International Women's Year. Since then, this day has become a global phenomenon, with groups worldwide celebrating women's achievements and striving for progress. It is a truly global day celebrating the world's women.

Julie, Female Founder & CEO of Lively Living

The Meaning Behind the Day

IWD is far more than just another event. This global day celebrating highlights ongoing struggles for recognition.

This significant day provides a dedicated space to uplift women and engage in reflection. It's essential to acknowledge the remarkable progress achieved while also bringing attention to the numerous challenges that still exist. Some groups choose to celebrate International Women's Day by holding IWD events.

These challenges include voting rights, equal opportunities, and fundamental human rights. The meaning may vary across different regions, but the overarching goal is to prioritize and advance gender equality. This also involves raising awareness through social media to help spread the word.

International Women's Day 2025: A Milestone Year

As we approach the present-day observance of IWD events, it holds considerable importance. In 2025, we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. This is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the global pursuit of gender equality.

The year's theme for 2025 is, ‘March Forward.’ It is an inspiration to push ahead and build an equal future.

The official UN Women website underscores the significance of the 2025 celebration. It symbolizes the enduring commitment to creating a more just and equitable world for ALL women. Organizations may launch campaigns in the lead-up to this important annual celebration, often coinciding with various International Women's Day events.

The Startling Reality of Gender Inequality Today

Despite significant accomplishments, concerning statistics expose persistent, deeply rooted issues. In today's world, a heartbreaking 47,000 women and girls were killed by those close to them in 2020. This represents domestic violence, that needs solutions around the globe.

Furthermore, 47 countries worldwide lack adequate laws to address marital rape. Appallingly, 2.7 billion women globally face legal barriers restricting their access to employment. Many young women are held back because of this.

Even in places like Australia, the pay gap remains substantial. Statistics demonstrate a 13.3% gender pay gap. It's time to achieve gender equality for all.

Moreover, physical safety and respect remain subjects of debate and negotiation. This lack of respect has become a focus on social justice. Domestic violence laws are still absent in 45 countries worldwide.

A shocking 30% of women report experiencing assault or abuse, often over extended periods. These abuses span age groups from young women to old.

These statistics are not merely abstract figures. They reflect actual suffering and experiences, impacting families globally. Many groups work to help and support a more feminist future for those affected.

The Critical Role of Climate Justice

Gender-related concerns have extended to the environment, giving rise to the concept of climate justice. Climate change impacts women and girls' rights in major ways.

A significant 2020 report revealed a disturbing correlation. Climate change is associated with violence against women. This ranges from human trafficking to the murder of advocates defending environmental rights.

Progress is also evident on multiple fronts, beyond legal rulings. There are now 112 countries with National Action Plans on women, peace and security. This marks a considerable advancement from just 19 countries in 2010.

Lively Living's Women

Livey Living was female founded by Julie in 2012. The Lively Living Team are also female, with Arlene and Lisa both having worked alongside Julie for nearly 10 years.

Getting Involved and Making an Impact

So, how can you participate in and contribute to Women's Day? It's a powerful moment of solidarity that transcends a mere instant. Think about taking part in existing events or organizing your own gathering.

Events and Activities Worldwide

You can readily discover a range of global and regional events. These events span workshops, conferences, online campaigns, and marches. Every country organizes different activities.

FAQs about International Women's Day

What is International women's Day in Australia?

International Women's Day in Australia, like in other parts of the world, is about recognizing the accomplishments of women. The goal is to continue to make progress and strive for equal rights and opportunities.

This includes the Traditional Custodians of the land and paying respects to Elders past, present and emerging. This also includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

What is the best message for women's Day?

A potential message could be: 'Celebrate achievements. Champion potential and equal rights. Break barriers.' Another option is: 'Empower all, inspire one'. You will discover various contemporary ways to articulate this sentiment.

What is the color associated with International women's Day?

Purple. Often paired with green, it symbolizes efforts to achieve gender equality. This color scheme has been used since 1908 in various feminist movements, campaigns, and celebrations, striving to unlock equal rights for all.

What is the theme for this year's International women's Day?

The official United Nations theme is “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” 'March Forward.' This encapsulates the progress made since the initial concept emerged over 30 years ago, aiming to create even greater impact.

Conclusion

By acknowledging this global movement to uplift, celebrate, and empower women, individuals worldwide can find inspiration. They can choose to dedicate time on this day, or at another suitable time, to contribute. We need to work at achieving gender equality for women and girls’ rights worldwide.

Reflect on your personal journey and the collective endeavor. Recognize the magnitude of the ongoing effort to ensure this day continues to move forward in a powerful way. We are actively shaping the narrative as this next phase unfolds for the vision of International Women's Day.

As Gloria Steinem, reportedly once explained, 'The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.' We need to help and keep supporting women's rights.

go back