International Women’s Day Strike or Women’s Day Strike is an event held every year on March 8th, to celebrate and honor women’s rights, achievements, and progress towards gender equality. This day holds immense significance in the fight for women’s rights and empowerment, drawing attention to issues such as gender-based violence, wage inequality, and lack of representation in leadership positions. International Women’s Day Strike began as a call for equal rights and suffrage for women in the early 20th century. Since then, this day has become a global movement to demand gender equality and to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in social, economic, cultural and political spheres. The theme for International Women’s Day 2021 is , encouraging individuals to challenge gender stereotypes and biases, and to celebrate women’s achievements. In many countries, including the United States, the day is marked by protests, strikes, and rallies, with women choosing to not attend work and instead participate in various events and activities promoting women’s rights. Furthermore, organizations and businesses often use this day as an opportunity to pledge commitments towards gender parity and diversity in their workplace. The idea of a strike on this day is rooted in history, with women being encouraged to abstain from paid and unpaid labor, highlighting the important role they play in society. It is estimated that over 5 million women around the world took part in the International Women’s Day Strike in 2017, representing women from over 50 countries. In addition to its impact on women’s rights, the strike also serves as a powerful reminder of the value of women’s labor and contributions to the economy. One of the major issues that International Women’s Day Strike focuses on is gender-based violence. According to the United Nations, approximately 137 women are killed by a family member every day, making women aged 15-44 more at risk of gender-based violence and femicide than cancer, malaria, traffic accidents and wars combined. Through the global reach of this event, International Women’s Day Strike brings attention to this epidemic and calls for action to end violence against women and girls. Another issue that the strike highlights is gender pay gap and inequity in the workforce. Despite making up nearly half of the global population, women face significant gender pay gap in almost all countries. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, based on current trends, the global gender pay gap will not be closed until 2234, making events like International Women’s Day Strike all the more crucial. This day also serves as a reminder of the need for women’s representation in leadership positions. From political leadership to business leadership, women continue to be underrepresented in decision-making positions. International Women’s Day Strike draws attention to this issue, emphasizing the need for equal representation of women and diverse perspectives in leadership roles. In order to make a real impact on gender equality and women’s rights, it is important for everyone to participate and show support for the International Women’s Day Strike. Even if you are unable to attend a rally or strike, there are many ways to participate and show support, such as wearing the color purple, which symbolizes dignity and justice for women, or sharing social media posts promoting gender equality and the theme. Women’s Day Strike is not just a one-day event, but rather a call to action to create a more equal and inclusive world for all genders. This year, let us all come together and gender stereotypes, biases, and barriers, and celebrate the incredible achievements of women around the world. 
International Women’s Day Strike – March 8th
