International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8th across the world. It is also known as the United Nations (UN) Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace.

IWD is a day to celebrate the social, political and economic achievements of all women.We recognize and honour women who have played an incredible role in the history of their countries and communities. We show appreciation and respect for the many amazing women today who are paving the way and creating opportunities and equality for our future generations. The day has focused and fought for many different issues in the last 100 years, from its beginnings in women's right to vote to highlighting violence against women in the 21st century. The focus this year is to empower women, envisioning a world where every girl and woman can exercise their right to have choices, get an education, have an income and live in a society free from violence and discrimination.

How to celebrate on the 8th of March:
There are many ways to show your support this International Women’s Day. Contact your local council or community groups to see what’s happening in your area this Sunday or organize your own event, here are a few other ideas that may inspire you:

Morning tea, brunch, lunch, dinner
A women’s festival
A tribute to female role models
Evening events that whole families can attend
Mother and daughter events for uniting different communities and ethnic backgrounds
Public lectures, forums on current women’s issues
Spend time with other women for the day eg. picnic, sports day
Storytelling evening
Involve local groups and  community in your activities
Wear Purple: symbolically, purple represents dignity and self-respect.
















All About Women, Sydney Opera House: 8th  March.
Sydney Opera House brings together some of the world’s most eloquent women to share, discuss and celebrate their stories in a series of 19 events. International speakers, including authors Brigid Schulte and Elizabeth Gilbert, and marine biologist Sylvia Earle, are joined by home grown talents, such as journalist Annabel Crabb, author Helen Garner, and feminist Germaine Greer.

“A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.” - Diane Mariechild

Till next time, Julie