Every year, on March 8th, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day. It’s a day that transcends borders, cultures, and backgrounds, uniting us all in recognizing the countless contributions of women in shaping history, culture, and society. It’s a day to honor the resilience, strength, and achievements of women, while also acknowledging the challenges they continue to face. At StrictlyHer, we believe that Women’s Day is not just about celebration, but also about reflection and action.

The Origins of International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day (IWD) has a rich history rooted in the labor movement and the fight for women’s rights. The first official observance of the day took place on March 8, 1908, in New York City, when 15,000 women marched for shorter work hours, better pay, and voting rights. The idea of a global day for women was first proposed by Clara Zetkin in 1910 at the International Socialist Woman’s Congress in Copenhagen. She suggested that every country hold a Women’s Day on the same day, with the goal of advancing women’s rights and gender equality.

In the years that followed, the observance of Women’s Day spread across the globe, and in 1975, the United Nations officially recognized March 8th as International Women’s Day. Since then, each year has had a theme that highlights pressing issues affecting women worldwide. From gender equality and reproductive rights to the fight against gender-based violence, Women’s Day has become a platform for advocacy and empowerment.

Women’s Day 2025 Theme: “Embrace Equity”

This year’s theme is “Embrace Equity,” a call to action for individuals, organizations, and governments to actively work toward creating a world where gender equity is not just an ideal, but a reality. Equity goes beyond equality. While equality focuses on giving everyone the same resources, equity recognizes that some people need more support to achieve fairness and justice. Women, especially women of color, women in marginalized communities, and those in the Global South, often face systemic barriers that impede their progress.

As we move forward, it’s crucial that we not only acknowledge these disparities but work together to dismantle them. This Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on how we can all contribute to creating a more equitable world where every woman has access to the same opportunities, resources, and freedom to reach her full potential.

Honoring Women’s Achievements

Women have made monumental contributions to every aspect of life, from politics and science to art, literature, business, and activism. Their achievements have often been overlooked or undervalued, but today, we celebrate them.

The Ongoing Struggle for Gender Equality

While International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate progress, it’s also a moment to reflect on the work that still lies ahead. Women continue to face significant challenges, including the gender pay gap, gender-based violence, unequal access to education and healthcare, and systemic discrimination in politics and business.

According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, it will take another 131 years to close the global gender gap if we continue at the current pace. This is a sobering statistic, but it also underscores the importance of activism and collective action. Women’s voices must remain central to the conversation on gender equality, and men must be allies in the fight for equality.

Organizations like StrictlyHer aim to provide a platform for women to share their stories, advocate for their rights, and access resources that empower them. We must continue to create spaces where women can thrive, build networks, and demand the respect and opportunities they deserve.

How You Can Make a Difference

International Women’s Day is about more than just talking—it’s about taking action. Here are some ways you can make a difference:

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Knowledge is power. Take the time to learn about the issues affecting women in your community and around the world. Share what you learn with others to raise awareness and spark conversations.
2. Support Women-Owned Businesses: Make a conscious effort to support businesses owned by women. By doing so, you contribute to their success and help to close the gender economic gap.
3. Be an Ally: Gender equality isn’t just a women’s issue; it’s a human issue. Be an advocate for gender equality in your workplace, community, and beyond. Speak out against sexism, discrimination, and violence when you see it.
4. Celebrate Women in Your Life: Whether it’s a friend, sister, mother, or colleague, take the time to celebrate the women in your life who inspire you. A simple gesture of appreciation can go a long way in boosting someone’s confidence and sense of self-worth.
5. Get Involved: If you’re passionate about gender equality, consider volunteering for organizations that support women’s rights. Whether it’s mentoring young girls, supporting survivors of domestic violence, or advocating for policy changes, your efforts can have a lasting impact.

International Women’s Day is not just a day to reflect on the progress we’ve made but to recognize the road that still lies ahead. Women’s rights are human rights, and it’s imperative that we all work together to create a world where gender equity is the standard, not the exception.

At StrictlyHer, we’re proud to be part of the ongoing conversation around women’s empowerment and gender equality. Today, and every day, we celebrate the power of women—past, present, and future—and continue to advocate for a world where every woman is able to live up to her fullest potential.

Let’s continue to uplift, support, and inspire one another.

Happy International Women’s Day!