International Women’s Day (IWD) stands as a global testament to the enduring struggle for women’s rights and gender equality. Its origins trace back to February 28, 1909, when the Socialist Party of America organized a Women’s Day in New York City to honor the 1908 garment workers’ strike, where women protested working conditions. This event ignited a series of global movements advocating for women’s rights.

The momentum continued to build, and by 1911, International Women’s Day was celebrated in several European countries, including Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with over a million people attending rallies.

These gatherings demanded rights such as women’s suffrage, better working conditions, and an end to discrimination.

However, it wasn’t until 1977 that the United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day, urging member states to proclaim March 8 as a day for women’s rights and world peace. This endorsement transformed IWD into a mainstream global observance, uniting diverse cultures and societies in the pursuit of gender equality.

Each year, the UN designates a theme for IWD to highlight specific areas of concern and action. In 2025, the theme is, “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” This theme emphasizes the creation of a future where women and girls enjoy equal rights, have limitless opportunities, and possess the power to drive transformative change.

The UN’s call to action for this year focuses on three pivotal areas:

Advance Women’s and Girls’ Rights: This involves advocating against violence, discrimination, and exploitation. By supporting policies and initiatives that protect women and girls, individuals can contribute to a safer and more equitable society.

Promote Gender Equality: Addressing systemic barriers and elevating the voices of women and girls are crucial steps. This includes challenging stereotypes, supporting equal pay initiatives, and ensuring that women have equal representation in all sectors.

Foster Empowerment: Redefining power structures to guarantee access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities for women and girls is essential. Empowerment also means providing resources and support for women to make autonomous decisions about their lives.

A significant aspect of empowerment is addressing menstrual equity. Days for Girls, an international organization, envisions a world where menstruation is no longer a barrier to education or opportunity. They emphasize that periods are natural, and no one should be excluded from opportunities due to menstruation.

The Kamloops Chapter of Days for Girls Canada is dedicated to promoting gender equality by making gold standard, washable, sustainable menstrual kits ensuring that every menstruator, globally, nationally, as well as right here in British Columbia, has the necessary resources to manage their period.

International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the progress made and the challenges that remain in achieving gender equality. By participating in events and supporting initiatives that advance women’s rights, promote equality, and foster empowerment, the Kamloops community can contribute to creating a world where all women and girls have the opportunity to thrive.

In Kamloops, there are several events planned to celebrate International Women’s Day:

Empower Her Event: Hosted by Kamloops Immigrant Services, this event takes place on March 8, 2025, at 448 Tranquille Rd., Kamloops, BC V2B 3H2, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Designed for individuals aged 18 and over, the event includes interactive workshops, guest speakers, and breakfast. It’s an opportunity to connect, grow, and be inspired. More details can be found at facebook.com/KamloopsImmigrantServices/photos/-join-us-for-the-3rd-annual-empower-her-event-celebrate-international-womens-day/1021703643318604/

Kamloops Symphony Orchestra (KSO) Presentation: In honor of International Women’s Day, the KSO is presenting “A Unique Audiovisual Experience.” While specific details about the date and program are forthcoming, this event promises to be a celebration of women’s contributions to the arts. For updates, visit the KSO’s official website.

Terry-Lynn Stone is the president of Days for Girls Kamloops