What is International Women’s Day?
March 8th is internationally recognised as International Women’s Day (IWD), a global celebration of women’s achievements and a reminder of the need to secure gender equality.
Created in the early 20th century, IWD was initially established in response to rising progressive ideologies associated with rapid industrialisation and the growth of new industries. The day’s significance varies cross-culturally, depending on the gender inequality related issues of a region. In Western countries, observations of IWD tend to focus on workplace gender equality, representation, and wage gaps. In the Global South, discourse tends to emphasise fundamental human rights, access to education, safety, and healthcare. At a global university like Richmond, these priorities tend to intersect, fostering unique and meaningful dialogue about the role of women in our community and beyond.
Personal Reflections
In the United States, IWD was acknowledged but was not prioritised as profoundly until recent years. However, I noticed a resurgence in recognition following the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, with many American women more prominently advocating for women’s rights issues. I observed the most notoriety on social media, primarily through marketing campaigns. Occasionally, there were celebrations in schools or workplaces. The general theme centred around women’s empowerment or perpetuating the “Girl Boss” narrative, often diluting its activist origins.
A Social Media Movement
A primary driver of IWD’s global visibility is social media. Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn have galvanised participation in advocating for women’s rights. Viral hashtags like #IWD2025, the “Add Yours” Instagram story feature, and companies using LinkedIn to share how they observe IWD amplify voices worldwide, equally highlighting women’s victories and the ongoing challenges women endure in nearly every area of life. This raises the question: Is digital engagement enough? While awareness is essential, it is vital that women feel their contributions are acknowledged beyond March 8th.
Voices from the Richmond Community
Kandice Carr-Miller, a British Master of Business of Administration (MBA) postgraduate student, said, “I love International Women’s Day. I always love the celebration of women.”
Another postgraduate student in the MA in Advertising and Public Relations programme, Nicole Brignoli, said, “Every [International] Women’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the most incredible woman I know: my mum. She taught me strength, kindness, and the courage to be myself, and if I’ve grown into even a decent woman today, it’s because of her. On Women’s Day, I thank her, and I remind myself of the power that all women have. We are incredible.”
Finally, Gabby Hill, a third-year American undergraduate student studying psychology, said, “International Women’s Day is a reminder to stay empowered and continue to stand up for ourselves and each other.”
Looking Ahead: Our Role as a Global Institution
International Women’s Day is not just about one day—it’s a reminder to act year-round. This year, let’s commit to doing more than acknowledging women’s contributions but actively supporting them in tangible ways. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or daily conversations that challenge stereotypes, each of us has a role in pushing for a more equitable world.
What will you do beyond today to create lasting change?
