Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8, and everything is set for this occasion, which is observed worldwide.
The origins of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day was established to celebrate women’s progress in social, economic, and political fields and draw attention to the discrimination they still face today.
The first edition of National Woman’s Day was held on February 28, 1909, in the United States, thanks to the initiative of the American Socialist Party. The date was chosen to commemorate the strike of thousands of garment workers in New York the previous year, who had protested for better working conditions.
In 1910, the Second International Socialist Women’s Conference, held in Copenhagen, proposed the establishment of a day dedicated to women’s rights. The idea was embraced, and in 1921, during the Conference of Communist Women in Moscow, March 8 was officially chosen as the date to commemorate the struggles of working women.
In 1911, Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland were among the first European countries to observe this day.
What is the symbol of the Women’s Day in Italy?
In Italy, the symbol of International Women’s Day is the mimosa flower, officially chosen in 1946 by Communist parliamentarian Teresa Mattei. The mimosa was selected because it blooms in early March and is affordable, making it an accessible gift for everyone. This flower is known for its resilience and ability to thrive even under challenging conditions, a characteristic that reflects the strength and determination of women in their fight for rights. Additionally, the yellow colour symbolises renewal and hope, evoking the journey of those who have fought for gender equality.
Historiacl events related to International Women’s Day?
- 1893: New Zealand becomes the first country in the world to grant women the right to vote (November 28).
- 1910: During the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, the idea of a dedicated day for women’s rights is proposed (August 26–27).
- 1914: The first official Women’s Day is celebrated in Germany, calling for women’s voting rights (March 8).
- 1917: In Petrograd (now Saint Petersburg), women protest for an end to the war and the collapse of Tsarism. This event marks the beginning of the February Revolution (March 8).
- 1921: Moscow officially establishes International Working Women’s Day (March 8).
- 1922: Italy celebrates International Women’s Day for the first time, promoted by the Italian Communist Party (March 12).
- 1946: Italian women vote for the first time in local elections (March 10) and later participate in the institutional referendum and the election of the Constituent Assembly (June 2).
- 1972: In Rome, 20,000 women gather in a demonstration at Campo de’ Fiori, marking a significant moment for the Italian feminist movement (March 8).
- 1976: Tina Anselmi becomes the first woman in Italy to hold the position of Minister of Labor and Social Security (July 29).
- 1977: The United Nations officially proclaims March 8 as International Women’s Day, emphasizing the importance of gender equality and global peace.
Women’s Day celebrations around the world
- Italy: It is customary to give mimosa flowers to women as a symbol of respect and affection.
- Russia: The day is a national holiday, and women receive flowers and gifts.
- China: Female workers are granted a half-day leave in many companies.
- United States: The entire month of March is dedicated to Women’s History, with cultural events and initiatives.
- Colombia & Peru: Women organize food markets, selling traditional dishes to raise funds for charities.
- Ecuador: In Quito, women gather in the Women’s Park to attend performances and cultural events.
- Philippines: Women’s rights demonstrations culminate in the symbolic release of glowing lanterns into the sky.
- Indonesia: The day includes conferences and discussions on social and political issues, along with artistic events and street festivals.
- Romania: It is customary to give the mărțișor, a charm tied to a red and white string, symbolizing good luck and affection.
- Vietnam: Women bring homemade food to share with colleagues during lunch breaks.
- Russia: For one day, women enjoy a break while men take over household chores.
- Latin America: Marches and rallies are organized to raise awareness of women’s rights issues.
Click here and discover a selection of the best Italian wines to celebrate Women’s Day.
