International Women's Day
March 8 is International Women's Day (IWD). It’s a global day to recognize and celebrate women’s and girls’ social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It’s also a time to highlight the progress made in advancing women’s rights and the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their full participation in all aspects of society.
International Women’s Day 2025 theme
The Government of Canada’s theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is Strength in every story.
This year’s theme highlights the importance of amplifying the voices of all women, particularly those who continue to face barriers to success. Creating opportunities for women and girls unlocks their potential and drives innovation, supports Canada’s economy, and helps ensure a sustainable future for all.
Every woman’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity. This International Women’s Day, celebrate the women and girls in your life and share their stories.
International Women’s Day toolkits
2025 digital toolkit
Download these visuals and use them on your website, social media channels or virtual meetings.
Download all visuals (ZIP – 1.8 MB) or choose the content that is most important to you based on your needs.
How to save images to your computer or mobile device
(1) Select the image
On a PC: Right-click on the image you want to download.
On a Mac: Hold down the Control key (Ctrl) and click on the image you want to download.
On a mobile device: Tap and hold the image you want to download until the menu appears.
(2) Choose “Save as”
The options on the contextual menu will vary, depending on which web browser you’re using. Some browsers may say “Save as” while others may say “Save image as” or “Save picture as.”
(3) Rename the file (optional)
A dialogue box will open, giving you the opportunity to change the file name or keep it as is.
(4) Choose a destination folder
Specify a location to save the downloaded image and click “Save.”
Facebook, X and LinkedIn
Use this image for your Facebook, X and LinkedIn content.
Virtual meeting background
Text version – Virtual meeting background
International Women’s Day 2025 theme “Strength in every story” in both official languages. A round rectangular shape with flowers on each side along with the Canada wordmark.
Use this background during your virtual meetings.
Text version – Instagram
International Women’s Day 2025 theme: Strength in every story. A joyful woman surrounded by flowers along with the Canada wordmark.
Use this image for your Instagram content.
Web banner
Text version – Web banner
Four joyful women from various ages and ethnic backgrounds surrounded by flowers along with the Canada wordmark.
Use this banner for your web or intranet content.
Teacher toolkit
Discover tools and resources for educators.
Ways to get involved
- Share stories of women making a difference in your community or workplace. Learn about inspiring Canadian women and gender equality in Canada:
- Get to know the Women of Impact in Canada online gallery featuring profiles of courageous women who have made an impact in politics, the arts and sciences, and countless other fields
- Explore the Women in Canadian History: A Timeline showcasing the achievements of Canadian women in various fields such as politics, sciences, and the arts
- Consult the Gender equality timeline for an overview of gender equality milestones in Canada
- Watch Heritage Minutes videos on notable Canadian women
- Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or X and share our #IWD2025 social media posts, or start a conversation by using our social media shareables in the digital toolkit and the hashtag #IWD2025
Historical background
The beginnings of International Women's Day can be traced back to the early twentieth century. It emerged from the activities of labour movements in North America and Europe and reflected a growing call for women’s equal participation in society.
International Women's Day first took place on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. That day, over a million women and men attended public events to show their support. Other countries began to observe and celebrate this day in the years that followed. The United Nations recognized 1975 as International Women's Year and began celebrating March 8 as International Women's Day.
Today, International Women's Day is a day of unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy, and action and is celebrated in many countries worldwide.
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