International Women’s Day (IWD) first emerged from the activities of labor movements at the turn of the twentieth century in North America and across Europe. It was at an International Women’s Conference in Copenhagen in 1910 that 100 women from 17 countries agreed that the marking of an IWD was a promising strategy to promote equal rights, including the right to vote. One year later, in 1911, IWD was celebrated for the first time by millions of people worldwide. At these gatherings, women demanded that they be given the right to vote and to hold public office, and they protested against employment sex discrimination.
Over 100 years later, IWD is commemorated on March 8, and is celebrated in many countries around the world. While the focus of each celebration is somewhat unique, IWD is a day when women are recognized worldwide for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political. It is an occasion for looking back on past struggles, celebrating accomplishments, and exploring future opportunities that await each of us individually, and all of us collectively.
From March 5-8, 2013, women of all ages and backgrounds will gather for We Move Forward on Isla Mujeres, The Island of Women, Mexico and celebrate IWD. This 4-day conference promises to be as “brilliant”, “crazy amazing”, and “life changing” as the inaugural event in 2012. To call it a 4-day miracle is a stretch, but the effects of We Move Forward are miraculous. When 90 women gathered on Isla Mujeres for the inaugural WMF last March, no one knew what would emerge, but the experience changed lives. The stories are as distinct as the women. There were endings – resignations from dead-end jobs and exits from dissatisfying relationships; there were new beginnings – writing the book that’s been on hold and literally getting back in the driver seat following the death of a life-long spouse, among many other success stories.
To what can these positive life changes be attributed? We Move Forward is the perfect blend of people, place and program. It truly is a body, mind and soulful experience. And there is a spot for you among this special community of women. What better place to celebrate IWD than on the Island of Women with like-hearted and like-minded women. Join the celebration today: www.wemoveforward.com