Today, millions of people across the globe will celebrate the centennial of International Women’s Day. And there’s a lot to celebrate: Since March 8, 1911, women have made vast economic, political, and social strides forward — though of course, there is still much more to be done. This special day has a hundred years of history behind it, from its beginnings as a march through New York City in 1908 to the designation of 1975 as International Women’s Year. And did you know that in the United States, the entire month of March is celebrated as Women’s History Month?
In some countries, International Women’s Day is an official national holiday. The celebration originally came out of early 20th-century socialist movements, so it’s only natural that countries like China, Armenia, Russia, Ukraine, Vietnam, Cuba, and most of the former Soviet Republics make it a day off to celebrate the accomplishments of women. In many countries, men honor their mothers, wives, girlfriends, colleagues, and daughters with gifts and flowers. There are even special greeting cards created just for the occasion, translated into every language imaginable.
Today, thousands of events will be held worldwide to celebrate women’s achievements and contributions — and to inspire future accomplishments as well. From Afghanistan to Zambia, political rallies, business conferences, networking events, craft markets, theater performances, and sports meets will connect women and girls on every continent.
Savvy global businesses take note of this important celebration by creating internal events and supporting external happenings. You can see one of Google’s special logos today — and the search site has put out an invitation to the thousands of exciting “Join Women on The Bridge” events happening all over the world today, sponsored by Women for Women International.
This wonderful celebration has come fully into the 21st century with full access on social networking sites. Watch videos commemorating the day on YouTube, add photos to the Flickr stream, follow the Twitter feed, and connect on the Facebook page. And check out this terrific slideshow of extraordinary women around the world, presented by Thomson Reuters.
Want to get inspired and learn more? Visit the official International Women’s Day site, and find out how you (and even your company) can participate in a celebration that keeps on growing — and changing the world.