Celebrating 115 Years of International Women’s Day
Every year on March 8, people around the globe celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). Now in its 115th year, IWD has grown into a worldwide observance dedicated to honoring women’s achievements throughout history and across all cultures. Since its inception in 1911, IWD has remained a call to action for progress. The United Nations has officially recognized IWD since 1975, but the day’s legacy reaches back much further. This post explores how IWD began, highlights the 2026 campaign theme #GiveToGain and hashtag #IWD2026, and examines the event’s ongoing global impact.
How IWD Began and Why It Matters
Many are familiar with the modern celebrations of International Women’s Day, but its origins are found in a period of great social and political change. In the early 1900s, the industrialized world was experiencing rapid population growth and the rise of new ideologies. Amid this unrest, women’s inequality spurred them to organize and demand change.
Why was March 8 the Turning Point for Women’s Rights?
The significance of March 8 traces back to a pivotal moment in 1908. On this day, over 10,000 women marched through the streets of New York City. They were demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and the right to vote. On that same day, women working in the needle trades also protested against child labor and poor sweatshop conditions while demanding women’s suffrage. These powerful demonstrations marked a turning point. By 1910, March 8 was established as the annual day to celebrate women and advocate for their rights.
Driving Change in Manufacturing
This year, the IWD focus is on how the manufacturing industry can play a pivotal role in advancing gender equality. The core message is simple: when we give, we gain. The #Givetogain campaign highlights the power of reciprocity. In manufacturing, this means creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and building support systems for women in the industry. Giving isn’t a loss—it’s an investment in a stronger, more innovative workforce. When women thrive in manufacturing, the entire sector benefits through increased diversity, creativity, and productivity.
So, what can the manufacturing industry give to help achieve gender equality? The possibilities are:
- Donations to women-focused STEM and trade programs
Support scholarships, apprenticeships, and initiatives that encourage women to pursue careers in manufacturing and engineering. - Sharing knowledge and expertise
Host workshops, webinars, or factory tours to inspire and educate women about opportunities in the field. - Providing resources and infrastructure
Invest in family-friendly workplace policies, such as on-site childcare or flexible scheduling, to support women in balancing work and life. - Increasing visibility for women’s achievements
Celebrate and promote the contributions of women in manufacturing through awards, case studies, and leadership spotlights. - Advocating for policy changes
Push for industry-wide standards that promote pay equity, safe working conditions, and inclusive hiring practices. - Offering education, training, or mentorship
Create mentorship programs and training initiatives to help women advance into leadership roles within manufacturing. - Volunteering time
Partner with schools and community organizations to encourage young women to explore careers in manufacturing.
By contributing in these ways, the manufacturing industry can help build a more inclusive and interconnected workforce. The question posed by the 2026 campaign is one for all of us in manufacturing to consider: What will you give to gain gender equality?
This version ties the campaign’s message directly to the manufacturing sector, emphasizing actionable steps and industry-specific contributions.
The Influence of IWD Today
IWD continues to drive meaningful change across critical industries, including manufacturing. The sector faces a significant labor challenge. According to a study by Deloitte, 3.8 million jobs will need to be filled over the next decade. Without targeted efforts to address skills and hiring gaps, nearly 1.9 million of these roles may remain vacant. The need to engage untapped talent is urgent.
IWD spotlights on these challenges within manufacturing, supporting conversations and initiatives that call for broader gender inclusion. By raising awareness and prompting industry leaders to reevaluate recruitment, development, and advancement strategies, IWD helps shape new pathways for women to enter and grow within the field. This focus on gender equality strengthens both the workforce and the competitiveness of the industry, highlighting that tapping into diverse talent is essential for innovation and sustainable growth.
What is the Best Message for IWD?
Women’s participation in manufacturing has been steadily rising but progress remains gradual. According to Women in Manufacturing.as of October 2025, women make up 29% of the manufacturing workforce. This illustrates both momentum and room for improvement. Addressing the gaps in hiring and leadership opportunities for women will remain essential for shaping the future of the industry and driving manufacturing career opportunities for girls around the world.
In the modern era, International Women’s Day serves as a powerful catalyst for global change. What began as a protest has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon that shines a light on the persistent challenges women face in areas like education, leadership and economic opportunity.
Today, the day is pivotal in uniting millions of people, often through digital platforms, to spark crucial conversations. These discussions cover everything from workplace equity and political representation to women’s health and safety. From grassroots campaigns in local communities to diversity initiatives in corporate boardrooms, IWD mobilizes resources and commitment toward building a more balanced and equitable world for everyone.
How You Can Make a Difference
IWD provides a valuable moment to reflect on the journey of women—from our historical contributions to their present-day roles and future aspirations. It is a day for celebration, reflection, and, most importantly, action.
As we look toward March 8, 2026, let’s embrace the spirit of the #Givetogain campaign. Consider how you can contribute to the cause of gender equality. Your actions, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect that helps forge a more just and prosperous world for all.
DELMIA digital marketing expert, editor of the DELMIA blog, and a strategic marketer with a background in the manufacturing industry.