Ziquin Life Salutes International Women’s Day

There are few social movements that are more healthful than women mobilizing in solidarity to support other women. More than 25 countries recognize International Women’s Day as an official holiday, and it is observed unofficially in at least a dozen more. In some countries, it’s an occasion in which women receive flowers and even gifts, while in others it’s a day of protests for women’s rights.

Woodrow Wilson formally established Mother’s day in 1914. Mothers were quietly acknowledged for their loving hearts and the sacrifices they made for their children. Yet as vital as this has been, women have contributed in hidden areas too.

On March 8, 1994 representative Maxine Waters of California and 79 co-sponsors tried to introduce legislation to designate the eighth of each March as International Women’s Day in the United States. Interestingly, the bill never made it out of committee. Some say the reason is that in America, Mother’s day is enough. But some will argue that point.

International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It is a chance to celebrate and raise consciousness and awareness. The day helps women vocalize their thoughts and raises the question of what a woman’s purpose in life is.

Cultural population studies demonstrate that having a purpose in life is one characteristic of people who live longer. People whose lives are healthier compared with those without a life-purpose. Therefore, girls who are empowered to realize their life-purpose - who, by the way, may or may not become mothers - hold the golden key. These young women can grow by changing the rules and paving the road for future generations of girls to dream bigger than ever before in history!

International Women’s Day supports the mindset that women can grow into big shoes, to find their voice in a better and healthier world.