In Vietnam, women make up 51% of the workforce and play a primary role in family life and child-rearing. To honor and celebrate women, International Women’s Day on March 8th is observed with great reverence, often with an abundance of flowers and heartfelt wishes.
This day also serves as an opportunity for men to express their love and care for the important women in their lives. Let’s delve into the history and significance of this special day.
1 What is March 8th?
March 8th is recognized as “International Women’s Day,” a day to commemorate the global struggle for women’s and children’s rights and, today, to honor, celebrate, and appreciate women worldwide. In Vietnam, it also marks the anniversary of the uprising led by the Trưng Sisters, two national heroines who brought pride to the nation by leading the first successful resistance against foreign invaders from the north, reclaiming the country’s sovereignty.
According to the calendar, International Women’s Day in 2024 falls on Friday, March 8th, corresponding to January 28th, 2024, in the lunar calendar.
March 8th is celebrated as International Women’s Day
2 Origin and Significance of International Women’s Day
History of International Women’s Day
The history of March 8th dates back to the late 19th century with the American female textile workers’ movement. On March 8, 1857, female textile workers in New York City rose up against their harsh and exploitative working conditions. Two years later, in March 1859, female workers in the same industry formed the first women’s union in the United States, successfully securing better working conditions and benefits.
Nearly half a century later, on March 8, 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter work hours, higher wages, and an end to child labor. Subsequently, the Socialist Party of America designated February 28, 1909, as National Women’s Day.
However, it was on March 8, 1910, at a conference of women from 17 countries hosted by the Second International (the socialist organization), that Clara Zetkin, a German woman and the conference chair, proposed establishing an annual International Women’s Day to honor the struggles of women worldwide.
The conference agreed, choosing March 8th as International Women’s Day, a day of solidarity and advocacy for women, with the following slogans: “8-hour workday,” “Equal pay for equal work,” and “Protection for working mothers and their children.”
Since then, March 8th has become an annual day of struggle for working women around the world, a testament to their unwavering determination to fight for national independence, democracy, peace, social progress, and the happiness and rights of women and children.
Significance of International Women’s Day
Out of 365 days in a year, women have their own special day when society recognizes and appreciates their sacrifices and contributions, making up for any injustices and hardships they may face. Women often silently endure and sacrifice for the happiness of their families, and they deserve respect, appreciation, and support from the other half of the world in sharing life’s challenges and responsibilities.
In some countries, March 8th is a major holiday, with men presenting flowers, gifts, and heartfelt wishes to the important women in their lives, such as mothers, wives, girlfriends, daughters, and colleagues.
Additionally, International Women’s Day is marked by celebrations and rallies advocating for gender equality in practical matters like wages, education and career advancement opportunities, social security, and the fight against prostitution and violence against women.
In Vietnam, to honor and celebrate women, organizations, communities, and families often hold solemn events on March 8th, filled with flowers and warm wishes. This day also serves as a reminder for men to express their love and care for the women in their lives.
3 Activities to Commemorate International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day Around the World
In many countries, men express their appreciation to the women in their lives, including friends, mothers, wives, girlfriends, daughters, and colleagues, with flowers, gifts, and heartfelt wishes.
In countries like Cameroon, Croatia, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and Chile, although March 8th is not an official holiday, it is still widely celebrated.
In Bulgaria and Romania, this day is also equivalent to Mother’s Day, when children present gifts to their mothers and grandmothers.
In Italy, men traditionally offer women fresh, delicate, and beautiful mimosa flowers as a token of appreciation.
Activities to Commemorate International Women’s Day
In other countries, International Women’s Day is marked by rallies advocating for gender equality in areas such as wages, education, career advancement, social security, and the fight against prostitution and violence against women. Notably, women in Europe and North America often refuse to accept flowers on this day, instead focusing on the practical aspects of equality and considering the giving of flowers as an impractical gesture.
International Women’s Day in Vietnam
On International Women’s Day in Vietnam, Vietnamese men, especially the younger generation, express their love and appreciation to the important women in their lives, such as mothers, wives, girlfriends, and colleagues, with meaningful gifts, flowers, romantic dinners, and heartfelt wishes.
March 8th also commemorates the uprising of the Trưng Sisters
Additionally, March 8th holds significance as the anniversary of the Trưng Sisters’ uprising, the first female heroes in Vietnamese history who successfully drove out foreign invaders and protected the country’s borders. In the spring of 40 AD, the Trưng Sisters led a revolt that received enthusiastic support from local leaders and the people, particularly women. With their brilliant leadership, the uprising achieved victory, forcing the foreign ruler, Tô Định, to flee back to his country. After the victory, Trưng Trắc was proclaimed queen by the generals and the people, taking the title Trưng Nữ Vương and establishing her capital in Mê Linh (present-day Mê Linh district in Vĩnh Phúc province).
4 Heartfelt Wishes for International Women’s Day
1. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, I wish my beloved grandmother continued happiness, good health, and a long life. I love you, Grandma.
2. Happy International Women’s Day, Mom! I wish you good health and a smile every day. May all the best things come your way. I love you so much.
3. I feel so fortunate to have you by my side, my partner through life’s journey. Thank you for everything. Happy Women’s Day!
4. To my dearest sister, I wish you a joyful and blessed International Women’s Day. May your new year be filled with academic success and good luck! Cheers to March 8th!
5. You are not just my life partner but also my soulmate. Happy International Women’s Day, my love! I love you.
Heartfelt Wishes for International Women’s Day
6. To my best friend, I hope you receive lots of flowers, gifts, and wishes from the gentlemen in your life today. May your life be filled with more happiness, joy, and good fortune!
7. Happy International Women’s Day, teacher! May your life be filled with joy and blessings, and may each day bring new opportunities and luck your way.
8. Mom, thank you for bringing me into this world and raising me. On this special day, I wish you good health and everlasting happiness.
9. On behalf of all the gentlemen in our office, I would like to extend our warmest wishes to all the wonderful ladies here. May you always shine brightly, find happiness, and excel in your endeavors. Happy Women’s Day!
10. To the world, you may be one person, but to me, you are the world. Happy Women’s Day to the sweetest wife and most amazing mother of our children!
Reference: Short and Meaningful Greetings for Women
5 Gift Ideas for International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a perfect occasion to show your appreciation to the special women in your life with thoughtful gifts. Here are some gift ideas to consider:
- Gifts for Mom: Fresh flowers, hair accessories, jewelry, wallets, brooches, etc.
- Gifts for Wife or Girlfriend: Roses, cosmetics, a homemade dinner, etc.
- Gifts for Female Colleagues: Books, pens, desktop plants, snacks, etc.
Gift Ideas for International Women’s Day
Reference: Suggestions for Meaningful Gifts for Women
6 Frequently Asked Questions about International Women’s Day
What other days related to women are celebrated globally?
In addition to March 8th, there are several other days dedicated to celebrating and honoring women worldwide:
- Japanese Doll Festival (early March): Also known as “Peach Blossom Festival,” it is a celebration for young Japanese girls.
- Mother’s Day (May 10th): A day to honor mothers and their dedication to their children.
- Central African Republic Mother’s Day (May 19th): A day dedicated to mothers in the Central African Republic.
- Spanish Women’s Day (third Sunday of May): Also known as “Hundreds of Women Day.”
- Greek Women’s Day (August 1st): Marked by rallies, dances, and celebrations that continue into the night.
- Thai Mother’s Day (August 12th): A national holiday in Thailand.
- Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20th): A day to commemorate and honor Vietnamese women.
- National No Bra Day (October 13th): A day to raise awareness about breast cancer in the United States.
Other days dedicated to women around the world
Is March 8th Vietnamese Women’s Day?
While March 8th is known as International Women’s Day worldwide, or more formally as the “United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace,” Vietnamese Women’s Day is observed on a different date, October 20th. This day commemorates the establishment of the Vietnamese Women’s Association, formerly known as the Anti-Imperialist Women’s Association of Vietnam, by the Communist Party of Vietnam, with the aim of promoting and honoring Vietnamese women.
March 8th is not Vietnamese Women’s Day
Reference:
Is August 3rd International Men’s Day?
No, International Men’s Day is observed on a different date, November 19th.
International Men’s Day is celebrated on November 19th
Reference
The Origin and Meaning of Lunar New Year: Exploring the Celebration
The vibrant and joyous celebration of Lunar New Year is a festival steeped in tradition and held dearly by the Vietnamese people. This article will explain to you the rich history and symbolism behind this important event – Tet!
Explore 12 Amazing Destinations for Biking Trips
Unlock Vietnam in a brand new way with an exciting biking tour! Discover the stunning beauty of the country with Dien May XANH’s top 12 must-see destinations. From sweeping plains to clear blue beaches and mountainous vistas – experience all the sights with your own personal cycling tour. Find your ideal route and set out for an adventure today!
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Vinh Long: Rivers, Gardens, and Charming Landscapes
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vinh Long in the Mekong Delta with Dien May XANH as your guide! From lush green fields to interlacing canals and rivers, take part in a journey to explore the top famous check-in places while traveling to this potential tourist destination.
4 Tips for Making Medical Declarations Online with Phones and Computers
With the COVID-19 epidemic posing a complex situation for all Vietnamese citizens, it is their responsibility to make a medical declaration. If you are unsure of how to do it, Dien May XANH is here to help with 4 methods to make a medical declaration online on your smart phone or computer.
Expressions of Gratitude for Invalids and Martyrs’ Day on July 27th
On July 27, we have the opportunity to honor those who have sacrificed for our nation on Invalids and Martyrs’ Day. As we express our utmost gratitude to these heroes, we send them our best wishes and heartfelt appreciation on this special occasion.
