International Women's Day Committee
International Women's Day (IWD) – 8 March – is an occasion marked by women's groups around the world. In many countries it is a national holiday. The idea of International Women's Day was first conceived in the early 1900's and is rooted in socialist, labour and peace movements in Europe and North America. Today it is commemorated in countries North and South and is seen as a rallying point for efforts to demand women's rights and participation in all aspects of their lives. In Prince Edward Island and around the world, International Women's Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the courage and determination of ordinary women who have contributed to the history of women's rights.
The PEI International Women's Day Committee, started in 2006, includes representatives of Advisory Council on the Status of Women, Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Cooper Institute, CUSO, PEI Association of Newcomers to Canada, PEI Department of Education, PEI Native Council, PEI World University Services Canada (WUSC), PEI Rape and Sexual Assault Centre, UPEI Women's Centre, and Women's Network PEI.
The Committee organizes one central PEI event annually on 8 March, with a different related theme each year.