Celebrating International Women's Day: A Global Call to Action for Women's Rights and Empowerment

International Women's Day has its roots in the women's struggle that erupted after the Industrial Revolution, with women workers from trade unions mobilizing for their rights, specifically garment workers in New York rising for better wages and working conditions. The movement took its inspiration from the socialist and anti-imperialist struggle of the early twentieth century. The first International Women's Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, across Europe, with women taking part in demonstrations.

Today, International Women's Day is observed worldwide every March 8, with heads of states, governments, and private players and commercial brands sending out messages celebrating women's equality and empowerment. Demonstrations are planned from Tokyo to Mexico City, and this year's global theme is "Accelerate Action," coming at a moment where many activists worry that the current political environment may result in a backsliding on many of the rights they've long fought for. In Mexico, which hosts one of the region's biggest marches, celebrations this year are marked by sharp contrasts, with the country celebrating its first female president, while also mourning victims of stark violence against women.

As women across the world call for equal pay, reproductive rights, education, justice, and decision-making jobs, it is essential to recognize the historical roots of International Women's Day and the struggles that women have faced and continue to face. The day is not just a celebration of women's achievements but also a call to action to address the persistent inequalities and injustices that women face. With the United Nations reporting that one in four countries experienced a backlash against women's rights last year, and a woman or girl being killed every 10 minutes by a family member or partner, the need for action is more urgent than ever.