International Women's Day

International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8 every year. It is a day to honor the amazing things women and girls have done. People also talk about making the world fairer for everyone. The holiday has been celebrated for over 100 years.

The History

The first International Women's Day was held in 1911. At that time, many women were not allowed to vote or go to college. Women worked together to change these unfair rules. Over the years, women have won many rights. Today the holiday celebrates how far women have come and the work that still needs to be done.

How People Celebrate

People celebrate by honoring women leaders, scientists, athletes, and artists. Schools teach students about important women in history. In some countries, women receive flowers and gifts. Many groups hold marches and events to support equal rights. Purple, green, and white are the colors often used for this day.

Fun Facts

• The colors purple, green, and white stand for justice, hope, and purity.
• International Women's Day is an official holiday in more than 25 countries.
• The first woman in space was Valentina Tereshkova from Russia, who flew in 1963.

Did You Know?

In 1920, women in the United States won the right to vote after years of hard work by brave women called suffragists.