International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated on March 8, holds significant importance as it honors the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women globally. This year, the theme is ‘#AccelerateAction’, underscoring the urgency with which we must address gender inequities and support women worldwide.
The day has its roots stretching back over a century, with the first International Women’s Day gathering held in 1911, supported by over a million people across Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. The 2025 observance will see events taking place around the globe, each dedicated to celebrating women’s strengths and advocating for gender equality.
At the ASRC’s center located in Footscray, Australia, International Women’s Day celebrations will continue. The ASRC, which has hosted events annually since 2018, will provide an inspiring platform highlighting the experiences of women seeking asylum. Anastasia Magriplis, Head of Humanitarian Operations and Resilience at ASRC, shares her thoughts on this year’s theme, stating, "This IWD I am thinking about how the Women’s Movement has changed the lives of millions of women...we must stand together with women to protect the human rights of women and all genders.”
The barriers many refugee women face are heightened, including restricted access to education, healthcare, and professional opportunities, as well as discrimination and trauma stemming from their experiences. This year's IWD serves as both celebration and call to action, emphasizing the need to dismantle these barriers.
Meanwhile, at the University of Liverpool, the Careers and The Guild have organized several engaging events to mark IWD. On March 3, students can participate in a charity quiz hosted by the History Society to support Refugee Women’s Connect. The quiz promises fun and solidarity, combining entertainment with purpose.
On March 4, the celebrations will continue with Acoustic Night featuring Ellie Keegan, where attendees can enjoy iconic music by female artists. This cozy event will serve as both relaxation and celebration, reflecting the essence of Women’s History Month.
Then, on March 7, students are invited to connect with industry leaders during IWD-focused career events, providing insights on paths for women within STEM and creative industries. These interactions are invaluable, showcasing how professionals can drive gender equality within underrepresented sectors.
Concluding the week of activities is a movie night on March 11, where students can enjoy films highlighting women’s stories and experiences, emphasizing the cultural significance surrounding the day.
The universality of International Women’s Day allows for communities everywhere to not only recognize the achievements of women but also to advocate for continued progress and equality. It is imperative to understand the fragility of this progress, especially since many women worldwide face challenges to their rights and opportunities.
By engaging in discussions, events, and campaigns relating to IWD, we can generate awareness about the significant work still required to eliminate gender bias and promote inclusivity. The struggles faced by women throughout history and today remind us to honor their achievements and advocate for future generations.
International Women’s Day is more than just one day of the year; it is part of the continuous fight for gender equality. It encourages us all to contribute to the global narrative and resolution of women’s rights and empowerment. This day serves as both celebration and reminder of the road still to travel.
Let us move forward, adopting the IWD theme of ‘#AccelerateAction’ as our guiding principle. Together, we can create lasting change and work diligently to secure the rights and opportunities for women everywhere.