Tate Modern lit up for International Women's Day, London, England (© Stephen Chung/Alamy Stock Photo)
Happy International Women's Day! We celebrate IWD with London's famous Tate Modern art gallery, lit up in purple. Why purple? The color associated with IWD symbolizes dignity, justice, and loyalty to the cause. This event celebrates women's achievements in politics, culture, and society. Every year on March 8, educational and cultural activities, demonstrations, campaigns, and discussions highlight the importance of gender equality and women's rights.
The first Women's Day was initiated by Theresa Malkiel, a labor activist, and took place in New York City on February 28, 1909, organized by the Socialist Party of America. The first international day was celebrated in 1911, although the date was not fixed as March 8 until 1917. It would be another 60 years before it was officially recognized by the UN, in 1977.