International Women's Day

 
 
International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated around the world on March 8 each year, recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. First celebrated in 1911, IWD became a mainstream global event after its adoption by the United Nations in 1977.
 

IWD provides an opportunity to raise awareness and highlight the need for consistent action to advance gender equality and, more importantly, break the numerous biases that surround the stories and experiences of all women.

Graphic image of diverse group of women with hashtag AccelerateAction

Theme of the year

The International Women’s Day campaign theme for 2025 is #AccelerateAction. Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively for #IWD2025 we can all #AccelerateAction. 

International Women's Day (IWD) has been around for over a hundred years, as have many of the issues that still impact women's advancement. Since 1911, IWD belongs to all who care about women's equality. Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to forge gender parity. All IWD activity is valid, that's what makes IWD so inclusive.

The United Nations International Women’s Day theme is “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” This year’s theme calls for action that can unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all and a feminist future where no one is left behind. Central to this vision is empowering the next generation—youth, particularly young women and adolescent girls—as catalysts for lasting change.

Learn more

You can learn about the International Women’s Day celebration worldwide here:

International Women's Day

United Nations Women's Day

Featured Events

International Women’s Day - Panel

Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) Webinar

This is an independent event organized by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI). The University of Lethbridge is an Employer Partner with CCDI. You can register as an Employer Partner with your ULethbridge credentials for free.

​March 11 | 11 a.m. MST

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University of Lethbridge International Women's Day Leadership Conference

Join us for the 2025 IWD Leadership Conference! ULethbridge has brought together an impressive group of leaders, change makers, innovators and educators to uplift, challenge and inspire.

​March 12 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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