INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: DUNDEE

International Women’s Day has been celebrated on the same day every year, March 8th, since the early 1900s. The purpose is ‘celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women,’ according to the International Women’s Day website (2023). International Women’s Day also acts as an opportunity to fight for equality, and many gather together to host events and fundraisers for charities like the Girl Scouts or those in need locally.

The strive of International Women’s Day is for a world of equal opportunity and treatment for all, and to commemorate those who have fought in previous generations for their right to exist and thrive how they see fit. In recent years, the day has strived to be more inclusive and open to all genders, as it can often be scary and intimidating to get involved in events which do not necessarily meet your identity.

International Women’s Day does celebrate the achievements of women through history, however, at the same time, on a basis for gender equality, inclusivity and intersectionality, a lot of events strive to include everyone to promote an equal and connected society. In Dundee in particular, the university has a few societies who are planning events for the day, which will have passed by the time the article is published. This includes an event hosted by the LGBT society, a self-care event open to all, and the Feminist society who hosted a coffee event and a film screening, again open to all. There was also the Dundee Women’s festival full of events and discussions that was held between the 4th and 19th of March!

It’s important we have days as a society to reflect on our past, and to draw conclusions on how we can pave the way forward for an informed and inclusive approach for future events and celebrations. Events like this can be difficult to attend, as the past is not pretty, and being educated unfortunately includes acknowledging and learning from often horrific historical eras.

If you’re celebrating this year, take care of yourself, take the time to learn about the history of International Women’s Day and how it is celebrated within different cultures, and what it means to different people. Don’t be afraid to celebrate the achievements of others, but be willing to listen to their stories and pasts without judgement!