Each year on March 8, people around the world come together to celebrate International Women's Day (IWD). This global event is dedicated to recognizing the achievements of women and girls in social, economic, cultural and political spheres, as well as raising awareness of ongoing efforts to achieve gender equality.

The origins of IWD can be traced back to the early 20th century when women across North America and Europe began demanding equal participation in society. In 1911, Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland held the first International Women's Day on March 19, with over a million women and men attending public events in support of women's rights. The observance quickly spread to other countries, and in 1975, the United Nations declared March 8 as International Women's Day.

This year, the Government of Canada’s theme for IWD 2024 is "Invest in women: Accelerate progress." It’s a call to action and a reminder that gender equality is one of the most effective ways to build healthier, more prosperous, and more inclusive communities.

Join us in commemorating IWD 2024, as we recognize the importance of gender equality and strive to build a future where everyone can thrive.