It’s International Women’s Day. The event, born of the socialist movement in the United States the early 1900s, has spread across the world in the century since.
But the day looks very different across the globe, much like the differences in the lives of women worldwide. Here’s how the event is being celebrated across in different parts of the world:
Pakistan: Female family members of missing Pakistanis are using the day to reiterate demands to know where their loved ones are. “For years, human rights activists have claimed that Inter-Services Intelligence, or ISI, and other security agencies in Pakistan routinely abduct men without legal justification,” The Times recently reported.
Venezuela: Backers of President Hugo Chavez marched for the women’s event. Chavez, in power for 13 years, faces a challenge from candidate Henrique Capriles this fall, as frustration rises over surging homicide rates and the stagnant economy.
Turkey: Women splattered with artificial blood protested domestic violence, while the Turkish parliament passed laws that will try to protect women and children from abuse. “The discriminative implementations against women and domestic violence should be stopped,” President Abdullah Gul said, according to the Hurriyet Daily News.
First Lady Michelle Obama delivers remarks at the International Women of Courage Awards ceremony at the State Department in Washington, D.C., March 8, 2012. (Official White House Photo by Sonya N. Hebert)
This photo gallery of all these courageous women is awe-inspiring. Thank you!
You’re very welcome!
Seeing these beautiful strong, courageous, women touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. I couldn’t stop the tears. I became emotional viewing their photos and reading their stories. They are all champions of leadership, courage, & women’s rights. Congrats to all of them!