International Women’s Day: Significance Amid COVID-19

The International Women’s Day: a day on which women all around the world, regardless of their ethnicity, age, religion, and role, are appreciated and acknowledged. In the 21st century, amidst the rapid development of globalization, we’re all aware of this day. We text our mothers, call our sisters, email our favorite high school teachers and thank them for being who they are. 

But do we know why this day matters?

A little history

Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 every year. It was first recognized by the United Nations in 1977, but the first individual to acknowledge this day was Clara Zetkins from Germany in 1911. The world has been celebrating this meaningful day for a century now, and each year brings us closer to fully respecting the efforts of half the world’s population.  

However, this year holds an even greater significance. This year, we appreciate all the women of the world who played their part in the pandemic. 

International Women’s Day 2021

It has been a year since Pakistan -- and the rest of the world -- went under lockdown because of the coronavirus. And this entire year has been full of effort from women: not just world leaders like Jacinda Ardern or activists like Greta Thunberg, but also the women whom we continuously overlook. 

Who are these women? They are our mothers, teachers, doctors, nurses, housekeepers -- and so many others. They all underwent rapid changes this year. Many of them lost their jobs, countless suddenly had to keep living up to their assigned roles as mothers and wives despite their inner turmoil.

In 2021, it’s our duty to appreciate these women in our lives who are playing their role to the fullest despite being as lost as the rest of us. 

And for all the women who are reading this, let’s not back away from challenging any obstacles that we’ll face. Because challenge leads to change, and change is the one thing the world needs now.

2021’s theme for women’s day is #ChooseToChallenge, so let’s step out of our comfort zones and make this day about appreciation and change!

Written by Filza Haider, Deputy Director Content Writing