International Women’s Day, originally called International Working Women’s Day, is marked on March 8th every year. In different parts of the world the focus of the celebrations range from general celebration of respect appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women’s economic, political and social achievements. Started as a Socialist political event, the holiday blended in the culture of many countries, primarily Eastern Europe, Russia, and the former Soviet bloc. In some areas, the day lost its political flavour, and became simply an occasion for men to express their love for women in a way similar to a mixture of Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. In other areas, however, the original political and human rights theme designated by the United Nations runs strong, and political and social awareness of the struggles of women worldwide are brought out and examined in a hopeful manner.
So this coming Friday do celebrate what is really an important occasion and raise a toast to womanhood. There is a selection of events happening nationwide so do pop along to one near you. Central Library in Derry, just a short jaunt up the road from Muff, Â is hosting a talk on Celebrating International Women’s Day by Felicity McCall at 7pm, and later at 9pm Sandino’s hosts a night of poetry and music – The Femme Fatale Show, both on Thursday 7th March (the eve of International Women’s Day). It will be a night to remember. Here’s to all you wonderful women….