The origin of Women´s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century when women were fighting for their rights and equality including the right to vote, work and receive an education.
The first women’s day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909. It was not recognized until the United Nations, in the year 1975 officially recognized March 8th as International Women’s Day. This year marks the Golden jubilee ,thus this year is all the more important for women all over the world.
Women´s Day is a global celebration that glorifies the remarkable achievements, toughness, and determination of women throughout history and worldwide. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle as well as success for gender equality, the rights of women, and their invaluable contributions to society. The day encourages society to appreciate the strength and courage of women and also raise awareness about the challenges they continue to face such as gender-based violence and unequal opportunities. It is a day to inspire the future generations to continue towards a more just and equitable society.
Throughout history, women have made important contributions to society. From innovative scientists like Marie Curies, who became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize to Amelia Earhart, who broke the stereotype barriers in the field of aviation and has consistently proven their strength and capability.
In politics, how can we forget Indira Gandhi, also known as The Iron Lady, the first female Prime Minister of India, and Angela Merkel, the first female Chancellor of Germany, who have shattered the glass ceiling of society and paved the way for future generations of female leaders? Their achievements have inspired countless women to pursue their dreams and aspirations, regardless of social norms and expectations. In our own Aquem Parish we have women leading from the front, we had at least three women moderators of the parish, who guided the parishioners and were the guiding force to the Church in all activities. Presently too the Parish moderator is a woman.
Despite these remarkable achievements, women are still facing numerous challenges which include inequality in payment, and limited access to education, and healthcare. But together we can break down the barriers that create the hindrance in the empowerment, respect, and value for their unique talents and perspectives.
The year 2025 is also a Jubilee Year in the Catholic Church, marking the 2025th anniversary of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. The theme for the year is “Pilgrims of Hope”. Thus this year as women all over the world celebrate International women’s day on 8th March 2025 they join the catholic church to be the Pilgrims of hope in their endeavours
The theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 is “Accelerate Action”. The theme calls for urgent action to address gender inequality and systemic barriers that prevent women from reaching their full potential.
Why “Accelerate Action”?
- The theme emphasizes the need to speed up progress to achieve gender parity
- The theme signals the need for urgent action to recover lost ground after the COVID-19 pandemic
- The theme calls for coordinated action to address the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on women
How to get involved?
- Engage with leaders to promote women’s rights and gender equality
- Share stories and messages on digital platforms using the hashtag #ForAllWomenAndGirls
- Participate and organize events that promote women’s equality
On this Jubilee year let us all take a pledge to support the women and the women be brave, be strong, be resilient, be vocal and let nothing hinder you in achieving success. Happy women’s day !!
Gladys Da Silva