The Public and Private Workers of Canada (PPWC) celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, an opportunity to reflect on the progress made towards achieving gender equality and celebrate the acts of courage and determination by individuals who have played an extraordinary role in advancing gender equality in their communities. The beginnings of International Women’s Day (IWD) trace back to the early twentieth century, emerging from the activities of socialist and labour movements in North America and Europe and reflecting a growing call for women to participate equally in society.
The first International Women’s Day was observed on March 19, 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. That day, more than one million women and men showed their support by participating in public events. In the years that followed, other countries began to observe and celebrate this day.
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Every Women Counts.” It’s a reminder that all women, from all ages and walks of life, have a place in every aspect of Canadian society, including in the economic, social and democratic spheres. Let’s celebrate the successful women around us, reminding today’s youth and girls that their dream is within reach.
