International Women's Day has been celebrated on 8th March each year since the 1900s to commemorate women's fight for equality and liberation. What started as the women's rights movement gave voice to issues such as gender equality and improved women's lives.
When talking about International Women's Day, one name that stands out is that of a German Marxist theorist, activist, and advocate for women's rights, Clara Zetkin, who proposed the establishment of an annual International Women's Day in 1910.
The inaugural International Women's Day was held on 19 March 1911. Then why do we celebrate this day on 8 March? Well, it was following a 1917 strike by Russian women for 'Bread and Peace' and a 1921 proclamation by the Second International Conference of Communist Women, chaired by Zetkin, that the date was shifted to 8 March.
Zetkin's efforts paved the way into turning this day into a global movement for women's rights. Zetkin and women like her are proof that resilience, self-belief, and the courage to define success on their own terms define strong, confident women.
On this International Women's Day 2026, with the theme 'Give to Gain', we read through quotes by a few of many powerful women who embraced their strength to bring the change in the world we live in today.
International Women's Day 2026 Quotes by Clara Zetkin: "All women, whatever be their position, should demand political equality as a means of ..."
These quotes come directly from the women who changed the world. These trailblazing women challenged societal norms across politics, social justice, science, sports, and many.
"All women, whatever be their position, should demand political equality as a means of a freer life, and one calculated to yield rich blessings to society."
Who said it? Clara Zetkin, German Marxist theorist, communist activist, and advocate for women's rights.
"I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear."
Who said it? Rosa Parks, Civil Rights Activist
"You must do the thing you think you cannot do."
Who said it? Eleanor Roosevelt, Former First Lady and Human Rights Advocate
"Women must try to do things as men have tried. When they fail, their failure must be but a challenge to others."
Who said it? Amelia Earhart, first women to fly solo non-stop across the Atlantic
"A woman's best protection is money of her own."
Who said it? Clare Boothe Luce, American writer, politician, diplomat, and conservative public intellectual
"A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman."
Who said it? Melinda Gates, American philanthropist
"They will tell you you're too loud, that you need to wait your turn and ask the right people for permission. Do it anyway."
Who said it? Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, American politician, activist, member of the Democractic Party
This International Women's Day, remember women who fundamentally changed the world for other women through collective movements, campaigns, and by giving their voice to issues. What will you give to gain gender equality? Tell us in the comments.
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