International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, will take center stage on Saturday, 2025, showcasing the contributions and achievements of women across the globe. This year's theme, '#AccelerateAction,' calls for immediate focus on gender equality and aims to recognize the persistent challenges women face.
Activities are scheduled across communities as part of this global initiative. Notable events include the International Women’s Day 2025 Opening Ceremony at Centennial Park on March 8, running from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. Organized by Peace Works, this ceremony will feature poetry, drumming, and songs, creating vibrant moments of joy and solidarity—even if the skies choose to rain. Attendees are encouraged to bring their umbrellas or chairs, ensuring comfort during the celebration.
Following the opening ceremony, the Salt Spring Public Library will host a film screening of 'The Story of the Coast Salish Knitters' from 2 PM to 4 PM. This documentary, produced by local filmmaker Christine Welsh, addresses the cultural narrative of Coast Salish knitters—women who have tirelessly worked to create Cowichan sweaters for nearly 100 years. The film interweaves archival footage and personal stories from generations of women, emphasizing their resilience and resourcefulness. It aims to highlight unsung heroines who, through their craft, contribute back to their communities.
Later on the same day, from 3 PM to 4:30 PM, The Fritz Movie Theatre will screen 'The Day Iceland Stood Still,' documenting the historic women's strike on October 24, 1975, when 90 percent of Iceland’s women stopped working to demand equality. Voted best documentary at the Victoria Film Festival, this film promises to entertain and educate the audience about women’s relentless fight for gender equity.
Conversely, Barrie, Ontario, is also ramping up its preparations for International Women’s Day. The Women and Children’s Shelter of Barrie has planned two significant events. On March 7, 2025, at 10 AM, supporters can gather at Barrie City Hall for a flag-raising ceremony marking the day, symbolizing community solidarity against gender inequality. Despite the progress made, as noted, less than 25 percent of parliamentarians worldwide were women as of 2019.
The following day, March 8, will see the return of the International Women’s Day Luncheon, set to start at 11 AM at Barrie Chrysler on 395 Dunlop St. W. The luncheon will feature the Hon. Joanna Shaw, judge of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario, as the keynote speaker. This event, which sold out last year, will not only provide engaging discussions but also support local women recovering from violence through various programs offered by the shelter. Attendees will enjoy meals and receive gift bags filled with local goodies, aligning with the event's supportive spirit.
From small venues like local libraries to larger community events, March 8 serves as both celebration and reminder. International Women's Day has been marked since March 19, 1911, when labor movements demanded improved working conditions and equal rights. It was formalized as International Women's Day by the United Nations in 1975 and has since evolved to address various challenges women encounter today.
The significance of International Women’s Day lies not only in its celebrations but also as a call to accelerate actions toward gender equality. Disparities still loom large, including wage gaps, discrimination, and socio-political barriers. The theme '#AccelerateAction' champions both recognition and proactive measures, emphasizing the importance of sustained commitment to women's autonomy and rights.
It is also marked by quotes from influential women who inspire empowerment. For example, Malala Yousafzai's assertion, "I want every girl to know her voice can change the world," encapsulates the spirit of IWD. Similarly, Michelle Obama emphasizes the boundless potential of women, insisting, "There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” These voices ignite hope and possibility, stirring collective action.
The message of International Women’s Day encourages individuals and institutions to work toward and advocate for gender equality actively. Engaging discussions, community events, and personal commitment are avenues through which everyone can contribute. After all, as noted by BR Ambedkar, "I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved.”
Therefore, as International Women’s Day approaches, communities are urged to reflect on their roles: attend events, support women’s initiatives, and actively participate in the dialogue surrounding gender equality. United efforts can lead to accelerating action and transforming aspirations for gender rights from mere ideals to lived realities.
This March 8, be part of the movement, whether it's through participation locally or engaging with the broader global narrative. Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women can inspire the next generation to continue the stride toward equality and empowerment.