What is March 8? March 8 is celebrated annually as International Women’s Day (IWD) — a global event dedicated to honoring women and promoting gender equality.
This day is not only about giving flowers or gifts, but also about recognizing the significant contributions women make to families, societies, economies, and politics. So where did March 8 originate, and what is its true meaning? Let’s explore in detail below.
March 8 is known worldwide as International Women’s Day, observed every year on March 8.
The main purposes of this day include:
Honoring the role and value of women
Recognizing women’s contributions in all fields
Promoting gender equality
Raising awareness of women’s rights and opportunities
Today, March 8 is considered an important international celebration in many countries around the world.
When asking “What is March 8?”, it is essential to understand its historical background.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, women in several countries began fighting for labor rights and political equality.
Key historical milestones include:
1908: Around 15,000 women workers in New York (USA) marched to demand better pay, shorter working hours, and voting rights.
1910: At the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen (Denmark), Clara Zetkin proposed establishing an International Women’s Day.
1911: International Women’s Day was celebrated for the first time in several European countries.
1977: The United Nations officially recognized March 8 as International Women’s Day.
Since then, March 8 has become a global symbol of the movement for women’s rights and gender equality.
March 8 is an opportunity to show appreciation for:
Mothers
Wives
Sisters
Female colleagues
Important women in our lives
It is a day to express gratitude, love, and respect.
Beyond celebration, March 8 emphasizes the importance of:
Equal pay for equal work
Women’s participation in politics
Equal access to education
Equal career development opportunities
International Women’s Day serves as a reminder that societies must continue working toward fairness and equality for women worldwide.
In Vietnam, when people ask “What is March 8?”, many also associate it with the Hai Bà Trưng (Trưng Sisters), two national heroines who led a rebellion in the first century.
Common activities on this day in Vietnam include:
Giving flowers and gifts to women
Organizing celebrations at offices and schools
Sending meaningful wishes
Hosting appreciation events
The atmosphere of March 8 in Vietnam is typically warm and heartfelt, reflecting deep respect for women.
If you are looking for ideas to celebrate March 8, here are some suggestions:
Give roses, tulips, or baby’s breath flowers
Prepare a surprise meal
Write a greeting card
Offer gifts such as cosmetics, handbags, or jewelry
Spend quality time with family
No matter how you celebrate, sincerity and appreciation matter most.
In Vietnam, March 8 is not an official public holiday. However, many organizations hold celebratory events and appreciation activities.
March 8: International Women’s Day (celebrated globally).
October 20: Vietnamese Women’s Day (celebrated only in Vietnam).
Because this day recognizes women’s valuable contributions and promotes gender equality worldwide.
So, what is March 8? It is International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to honoring, appreciating, and affirming the role of women in all aspects of life.
More than just a day for flowers and gifts, March 8 carries profound meaning related to human rights and equality. It is a meaningful occasion to show love and respect to the important women in our lives.