International Women’s Day
Today marks the annual celebration of International Women’s Day – a day where women are honoured and recognized for their contributions to society and accomplishments in the face of patriarchial societies. In 1975, which has been designated as International Women’s Year, the United Nations gave official sanction to and began sponsoring International Women’s Day annually on March 8th. However, it has celebrated in most countries since its inception in 1910 with flowers (red roses or yellow mimosas) and chocolate … my kind of celebration!
It is also tied to the slogan “Bread and Roses” originated in a poem of that name by James Oppenheim, published in The American Magazine in December 1911. It is commonly associated with a textile strike in Lawrence, Massachusetts during January-March 1912 over fair wages and dignified conditions.
We often forget the significance of a small gesture like baking a loaf of bread, a small bouquet of flowers, or popping a note in the mail to say thank you for being an inspiration and a mentor. Is there a woman in your life that you can recognize today? Mine is my Mom and I’m off to call her – hope you have a happy day!
