International Women’s Day (IWD) is recognized every year on March 8 to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Marking a call to action for accelerating gender equality, IWD highlights the progress made in advancing women’s rights and ongoing efforts needed for women to fully participate in all aspects of society.
What is the historical background IWD?
IWD first took place on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, when over a million people attended rallies to show their support for women's rights to work, vote, hold public office and live free of discrimination.
Other countries began to observe and celebrate this day in the years that followed and in 1975, the United Nations recognized the year as International Women's Year and began celebrating March 8 as IWD to this day.
What is the theme for this year’s IWD?
The theme for IWD in 2026 is “Give to Gain” and it encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. Visit internationalwomensday.com to learn more about this year’s theme.
In honour of International Women’s Day, download and share our:
- International Women’s Day poster »
- International Women’s Day (Social media shareable) »
- Seven spotlights on the negative impacts of the RTO mandate on women (Social media shareables) »
Events in honour of IWD
- Saturday March 7 – AMAPCEO Women's Caucus at International Women's Day Toronto March (12:30pm ET – Start at Bedford Road and Bloor St. W.) Open to all AMAPCEO members.
- Monday March 23 - AMAPCEO Women's Caucus: International Women's Day Trivia Event (noon ET). Online.
_____
Equity Caucus connected to this important day
The AMAPCEO Women's Caucus will work to foster equitable and barrier-free workplaces for Women's Caucus members represented by AMAPCEO.
Learn more about the caucus and sign up to join here: amapceo.on.ca/equity/caucuses/womenscaucus