International Women’s Day is celebrated on the 8th of March. The theme for International Women’s Day this year is – BreakTheBias Imagine a gender equal world – Cross your arms to show solidarity.
The United Nations said that “whether deliberate or unconscious, bias makes it difficult for women to move ahead. Knowing that bias exists isn’t enough. Action is needed to level the playing field.”
“A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Together we can forge women’s equality.
Collectively we can all BreakTheBias.”
This special day was first observed in 1911. The UN then began celebrating International Women’s Day in 1975 – The International Women’s Year.
Then in 1977, the United Nations General Assembly invited member states to proclaim the 8th of March as the UN Day for women’s rights and world peace.
International Women’s Day colours are purple, green and white. Purple signifies justice and dignity. Green symbolises hope. White represents purity, albeit a controversial concept, the UN said. The colours originated from the UK’s Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1908.
Photo by Maggie Bajada