International Women's Day (Mimosa Day)

What Is International Women's Day?

Every March 8th is "International Women's Day." It is said to trace back to March 8, 1904, when women workers in New York demonstrated for voting rights. In 1910, at the International Socialist Women's Conference in Copenhagen, the German socialist Clara Zetkin proposed a day to fight for women's political freedom and equality. The United Nations began celebrating the day in 1975, International Women's Year, and the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on it in 1977. It's a global day of celebration for women's political, economic, and social advancement, and for raising awareness toward achieving gender equality.

Mimosa Flowers and the Tradition of Gratitude

This day is also known as "Mimosa Day," reflecting the tradition of giving yellow mimosa flowers.

• An Italian custom: In 1946, the Union of Italian Women chose mimosa—which blooms in full glory at this time of year—as the symbol of the day. In Italy, where the day is called "Festa della Donna," the custom of giving mimosa as a token of gratitude and respect, whether from men to women or among women themselves, spread widely from there.
• What mimosa symbolizes: Yellow represents "the sun" and "hope." Mimosa, which heralds the end of winter and the arrival of spring, has become a symbol of the vitality of women who shine despite hardship.

Interesting Facts About International Women's Day

• "Bread and Roses": "Bread" (a living) and "roses" (dignity) is a slogan associated with the early 20th-century American women's labor movement, and it is often quoted on International Women's Day.
• A public holiday: Some countries around the world observe this day as a public holiday.
• The first observance in Japan: In Japan, the day was first marked on March 8, 1923, when an "International Women's Day" lecture meeting was held at the Seinen Kaikan hall in Kanda, Tokyo. It was proposed by Yamakawa Kikue and organized by the Tanemaki-kai group, with members of the Yōkakai and the former Sekirankai helping to prepare it.
• What "mimosa" really is: The yellow flowers called "mimosa" in Japan are mainly acacias such as silver wattle and Cootamundra wattle, different from the plants of the genus Mimosa.
• UN themes: Each year the UN sets a theme for International Women's Day, and the Secretary-General calls on member states to ensure women's full and equal participation in society.

Letting Your Own Colors Bloom and Celebrating Each Other's Brilliance

International Women's Day is a day to hope for a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can shine as their true selves. Just as the mimosa's flower language is said to include "gratitude" and "friendship," appreciating the people close to you and acknowledging each other's strength and kindness is the first step toward a better future. Why not let March 8th be a chance to recognize your own wonderful talents and value, and step confidently into the new season?

Tips for Enjoying International Women's Day

• Display yellow mimosa flowers to bring spring's bright energy and a sense of gratitude into your home
• Tell the women around you—family, friends, colleagues—how much you appreciate and respect them, whether in words or a message
• Read biographies or watch films about women who changed the world, and reflect on the paths and courage they forged
• Think about what a "happy way of living" means to you, and what you can do to help build a society where everyone is respected

A Sun-Like Smile Brings Spring to the World

On March 8th, your smile can carry a ray of hope to those around you. Just as yellow mimosa blossoms color the streets, your warmth and willingness to take on new challenges can encourage someone and plant the seeds of change. May today be a wonderfully proud and radiant day for you—a day to love yourself and share joy with the people who matter most.