A celebration of women, International Women's Day, has been observed since the early 1900s and occurs on March 8. Thousands of events are held on March 8 to inspire women and celebrate their achievements.
"A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more," says internationalwomensday.com's website.
CNN reported that the first International Women's Day was held in the year 1911, where women in four European nations marched. The were fighting for women's political and econimc equality and were pioneers for women today.
The day, today, represents all women around the world. Those who are fighting for what they believe in or can't fight to make the changes they need to find happiness due to circumstance. There are many reasons to celebrate women today.
"This year, Malala Yousafzai became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize nominee in history by risking her life for the cause of universal girls' education," reported CNN. Her courage has inspired women across the world. Some of the bravest, most revolutionary voices about empowerment are coming from women and girls like Malala who are calling the world's attention to social norms that prevent women from realizing their full potential."
CNN reported that women make important family decisions for their families in the poorest places in the world. Evidence has shown that women play a different role than men in the developing world and rae more likely to take care of their family's health, which is what children need to strive. CNN reported that survival rate for children increased 20 percent when a mother was in charge of the household budget.
The United Nations began celebrating International Womens Day in 1975 during International Women's Year.
"Two years later, in December 1977, the General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming a United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace to be observed on any day of the year by Member States, in accordance with their historical and national traditions. For the United Nations, International Women's Day has been observed on 8 March since 1975. The Day is traditionally marked with a message from the Secretary-General," reported The United Nations website.
The theme for today's International Women's Day from The United Nations is "A promise is a promise: Time for action to end violence against women."
UN Secretary Ban Ki-Moon said in a message on the UN website:
"As we commemorate International Women's Day, we must look back on a year of shocking crimes of violence against women and girls and ask ourselves how to usher in a better future.
One young woman was gang-raped to death. Another committed suicide out of a sense of shame that should have attached to the perpetrators. Young teens were shot at close range for daring to seek an education.
These atrocities, which rightly sparked global outrage, were part of a much larger problem that pervades virtually every society and every realm of life.
Look around at the women you are with. Think of those you cherish in your families and your communities. And understand that there is a statistical likelihood that many of them have suffered violence in their lifetime. Even more have comforted a sister or friend, sharing their grief and anger following an attack."
See the full speech here.
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