The InspireHer Society stems from our fundamental belief that women experience the workplace differently—which is also how International Women’s Day began.
In its early years, IWD was directly related to the rights of working women. International Working Women’s Day advocated for equal pay, women’s rights to work and vote, and an end to discrimination on the job. This global day now celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, and it still actively advocates for gender parity.
Previous campaign themes have highlighted the diversity of women’s experiences, including poverty, gender-based violence, access to education, and rural and urban differences. As writer and activist Audre Lorde said, “I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” Because although it’s International Women’s Day, it’s necessary to note that not every woman’s experience or adversity is the same, whether that be due to race, class, religion, disability, gender, sexuality, or any combination of these factors.
We are in the privileged position of getting to know many talented women. So let’s unlock our potential together and support each other in our diverse personal and professional paths!
Edmonton Event
This free event at City Hall will include a presentation of the Women’s Initiative Leadership Award, artistic performances, and resource booths (including InspireHer!).
Date: Friday, March 8, 2019
Time: 10–11:30 am
A Partial Timeline
February 28, 1909: first International Working Women’s Day (New York).
March 19, 1911: first International Women’s Day.
March 8, 1914: first modern International Women’s Day.
1975: United Nations celebrates IWD in International Women’s Year.
1977: UN General Assembly officially proclaims March 8 as IWD, a day for women’s rights and world peace.
1996: The UN assigns the first yearly theme to IWD.
March 8, 2011: Commemoration of the 100-year anniversary.
2019: The official IWD campaign theme is Balance for Better, calling for a more gender-balanced world throughout the year.
Further Resources
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