Happy Women's Day!

Women's Day, the 8th of March, is a national holiday in Russia and many other countries throughout the world. Our first two visits to Russia happened to fall during Women's Day, so we were able to experience this great holiday firsthand. Our interpreters explained that it is celebrated similarly to Mother's Day and Valentine's Day. Women usually get flowers and other treats like chocolate and dancing. To wish someone a happy Women's Day, you tell her "Congratulations!"

The holiday started in the United States in 1909 with the Socialist Party of America. But the Soviet Union and the countries in the bloc adopted the day early on in order to celebrate the achievements of women and to encourage gender equality. At first, the 8th of March was heavily politicized but as time passed and women gained ground toward equality, the holiday became simply a day to celebrate and appreciate the women in your life. So, give a woman a hug and tell her how much you appreciate her.

The text on the 1932 poster is: "8th of March is the day of the rebellion of the working women against the kitchen slavery. Say NO to the oppression and Babbittry of the household work!"