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International Women's Day
March 8 is International Women's Day, held in celebration and recognition of women. International Women's Day is not only an occasion marked by women's groups around the world; it is also commemorated at the United Nations and is designated a national holiday in many countries.
The AEU marks International Women's Day each year with a dinner and guest speaker at the AEU Building. The AEU's annual IWD Dinner in 2010 will take place on Wednesday March 10. See here for the flyer and registration form (PDF 121KB).
Origins of International Women's Day
As a response to their inhumane working conditions and low wages, on March 8 1957, women working in clothing and textile factories staged a protest in New York City. The police attacked the protesters and dispersed them. Two years later, again in March, these women formed their first labour union to try and protest themselves and gain some basic rights in the workplace.
On 8 March 1908 15,000 women marched through New York city demanding shorter working hours, better pay, voting rights and an end to child labour. They adopted the slogan "Bread and Roses" with bread symbolising economic security and roses a better quality of life. In May the Socialist Party of America established a designated National Women's Day.
Women's Colours
The colours originated with the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU), in the UK in 1908. The colours were said to represent: white for purity; violet for dignity, self-reverence and self-respect; and green for hope and new life. They are also said to stand for the phrase "Give Women the Vote".
IWD Activities for Students
We have put together some suggested activities for students to help them understand and appreciate International Women's Day. Let us know if you have other ideas.
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