March 8th: International Women’s Day

What’s the History of March 8th?

In 1910 Clara Zetkin, was part of a group campaigning for women’s rights and suffrage internationally. Along with other members of the movement, she suggested that the struggle for women’s rights be marked with a specific day. This later became “International Women’s Day”.  Just one year on, the day was celebrated in Denmark, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Large demonstrations took place all over Europe denouncing gender discrimination in the workplace and demanding the right to vote.

The day was officially recognised by the United Nations in 1977, then in France in 1982.

What does March 8th Mean to Us Now?

March 8th represents the continued struggle for women’s rights.

Demonstrations continue to be held on International Women’s Day, underlining the ongoing struggles of women all over the world today: for reproductive rights, gender equality, against violence and abuse against women etc.

In many countries, International Women’s Day is a national holiday and is used to promote and celebrate the achievements of women.

Explore more: 5 Million Expat Women in the World.

Want to get Involved?

Here’s What’s on Offer for International Women’s Day, Paris 2023

Run for Equality

On 11th March, the charity Libres Terres des Femmes will be hosting a fun run for equality (option of 4km or 8km).

Libres Terres des Femmes is leading the struggle against violence against women, and participants will be encouraged to donate what they can to this worthwhile cause.

The run will start at 10am, and will take place in Parc des Buttes Chaumont.

More information here.

Go to a Lecture at Basilique Cathédrale de Saint Denis

The Basilique de Saint Denis is offering a one-off chance to attend a visit which highlights the history of the queens and princesses buried in this ancient necropolis.

Who are the queens of France? What roles did they play within the kingdom? Discovering their stories through the tombs of the royal necropolis not only reveals the many issues and power relations related to the political and social context of their time, but also offers an indispensable insight into the path to gender equality. 

14:30 (for around 2 hours), Sunday 12 March

More information can be found here.

Motorbike for Equality!

This gathering invites women bikers to participate in a demonstration on motorcycles, showing that they are free and independent women who are ‘driving’ their own lives.
This year, they will be meeting at 14:00 on Avenue Foch, on Sunday 12th March.

More information here.

Learn more: Expat mothers, the forgotten ones?

Absolutely French is the first French school created exclusively for expats and expat spouses.

Our mission is to promote dual careers among expatriate couples.

With our fun, friendly and innovative French training courses, we guarantee a successful integration!

4, rue Faraday 75017 Paris

contact@absolutely-french.eu

+33 (0) 1 83 73 98 49