History Of International Women’s Day

Origins of International Women’s Day

            March 8 was first declared “National Women’s Day” by the U.S. Congress in 1911. In 1975, during International Women’s Year, the United Nations began celebrating March 8 as International Women’s Day.  The Day is traditionally marked with a message from the Secretary-General.

            The purpose of the Day is to recognize the fact that securing peace and social progress and the full enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms requires the active participation, equality and development of women; and to acknowledge the contribution of women to the strengthening of international peace and security. For the women of the world, the Day’s symbolism has a wider meaning: it is an occasion to review how far they have come in their struggle for equality, peace and development. It is also an opportunity to unite, network and mobilize for meaningful change (www.internationalwomensday.org). The world-wide theme for the 2017 celebration is # Be Bold for Change.

            We are pleased that the Maya Angelou Women’s Health and Wellness Center and several downtown businesses will honor women in our community with purple lighting and other features, and we hope others will join in “going purple” to commemorate this important day.  

            We hope each participant in the Day’s activities will be wearing purple.  If you were unaware of this tradition, please take one of our purple ribbons and wear it with pride throughout the day.