International Women’s Day (IWD) is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a global celebration of the strength, resilience, and achievements of women of all identities. Beyond that, it is also a call for action to eliminate gender inequality in this world. The roots of International Women’s Day trace back to the year 1908 when 15,000 women garment workers marched through New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay and voting rights for women.
North East Network (NEN) observed IWD in Shillong for the first time in 1998, involving discussions around women in electoral politics. In the same year, IWD was also observed in the state of Assam. NEN Nagaland observed the day for the first time in 2002. This year’s campaign is observed under the theme “Inspire Inclusion”. NEN reiterates its position that women must remain at the centre stage of all decision-making processes. To celebrate women’s agency, their substantive contribution from homes to public spaces and their leadership towards transformational change, North East Network organised the IWD campaign in six districts of Assam on 3rd, 6th and 7th March. This year, North East Network (NEN) in Assam commemorated IWD with fervour and purpose, focusing on ‘Celebrating Women and Girls’ Participation in Sports.’
Around 700 participants took part in the International Women’s Day celebrations across the districts of Darrang, Dhemaji, Kamrup(R), Golaghat, Sonitpur and Udalguri. The campaign’s highlight was diverse sports activities, including kabaddi matches, blindfold and hit games, musical chairs, and running races. Additionally, folk dances and songs enriched the festivities. The event also felicitated women peer leaders and community members for their longstanding association with NEN and their efforts towards driving social change.
