“A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.” Yoko Ono
What is International Women’s Day?
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International Women’s Day (March 8) is a day to celebrate women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements and acknowledge the challenges they continue to face in the quest for gender parity.
The beginnings of International Women’s Day (IWD) trace back to the early 20th century, emerging from the activities of labor movements in North America and Europe. It reflected a growing movement for women to participate equally in society.
The first International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. That day, more than one million women and men demonstrated their support by taking part in public events. In the years that followed, other countries began to observe and celebrate this day.
The United Nations recognized 1975 as International Women’s Year and later began adopting a resolution designating March 8 as International Women’s Day.
International Women’s Day is all about unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy and action – whatever that looks like globally at a local level. It has grown to become a collective day of recognition of women’s achievements and a call to action to support women’s rights and campaign for greater progress towards gender equality.
How to celebrate International Women’s Day in Montreal?
- Attend a networking event titled “Spirit of Women” at Milky Way Cocktail Bar:
Minibar Canada and a group of generous sponsors host New York’s Franky Marshall for International Women’s Day. Through passion partners, Bittered Sling, Campari and Aperol Canada, Montreal’s bartending community welcomes an industry icon. Attendance is limited so don’t forget to register here to receive a complimentary ticket. You can also make a donation right to the “La Maison Grise de Montreal”.
- Celebrate with the Young Women’s Christian Association:
The YWCA has helped women for years so it’s not surprising they’re going to have an event for International Women’s Day. From March 8th to 9th, they will be hosting workshops and an employment fair. Join them in celebrating women and check their schedule for more details!
- Recognize and learn more about the achievements of a woman in your community
Recognize the achievements of an exceptional woman in your community by profiling her in a local paper or online platform,. You can also make a donation to a charity in her name, or nominate her for an award (such as the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case).
- Volunteer in an organization supporting women and gender parity
Donate your time to a local, national or international organization that supports women and gender equality.
Tell us in the comments how you personally decided to celebrate International Women’s Day!
