8m

8M is the shorthand most commonly used to refer to March 8, International Women's Day, a global day of recognition for women's rights and gender equality. In many Spanish-speaking countries, 8M is also used to denote the date and the set of demonstrations, marches, and events that accompany the day.

Historically, International Women's Day began in the early 20th century with labor movements in North America and Europe. A 1908 garment workers strike in New York helped spur the suffrage and labor-right agendas. In 1910, Clara Zetkin proposed an annual International Women's Day at the Second International Conference of Socialist Women; in 1911, IWD was celebrated for the first time in several countries. The United Nations began celebrating IWD in 1975, and since then 8M has become a focal point for campaigns on pay equity, violence against women, reproductive rights, and women's political representation.

Observances vary by country. In many places, 8M features marches, rallies, and public statements by labor unions, feminist organizations, and political groups. Some countries recognize 8M as a public holiday or provide special leave. In recent years, digital activism and social media campaigns have complemented street actions, with themes addressing intersecting inequalities, such as race, class, and disability.

Although principally framed as a celebration of women's rights, the day is also used to critique backlash against gender equality and to mobilize broader social justice efforts. See also International Women's Day, feminist movements, and gender equality advocacy.