Do We Really Need Women’s Day?

Women’s Day over the last hundred and six years has become a day commemorating or celebrating respect and appreciation of women in all spheres of life. It initially started from constant labour movements at the beginning of the twentieth century in Northern America and across Europe. But what is the necessity of a separate day for one section of society which is clearly not a minority? One would argue that women have been oppressed throughout history and are in need of a day to remind themselves of their value. Then again, is Women’s day not a celebration of women who are doing exemplary work in their particular fields? The current condition of the world has led to the beginning of empowerment of women, but there is a general hesitation to accept it for what it is worth. To any particular male individual who is not trying to placate a female, Women’s day is somewhat of a nuisance and unimportant. Therefore, the day becomes insulting to both parties: the ones who are for it and the others who are not. It becomes a trope for the failed attempt at achieving gender equality in our society and a failure to both feminists and anti-feminists.

Then there is the argument that if there is a set day for cherishing women, there should be one for men as well. I think it is redundant in discussing why there is no ‘need’ for International Men’s Day. As for women, I fail to see why there should be a set day to cherish the female figure in one’s life; we do not need to express our love only one day, we can do it each and every day. The concept of Women’s Day becomes a symbol of pity towards women. Women are forced to mirror the image of a delicate flower which they are not. They have existed on the planet since the beginning of life and do not need to be acknowledged nor do they need impersonal cards and gifts—material goods to placate the subordinate position they hold in society. Moreover, the day deems women of being subjects that deserve respect for a day… novelty. A symbol of oppression cannot be something that the sane society would celebrate. Then again, hallmark cards and festive seasons have a way of concocting false images in the minds of people. What it can become is a reminder that even though we have come a long way and women have better living conditions, there is more to achieve. It can become a source of hope for change and inspiration for people to thrive to achieve the goal of equality. Last but not the least, Women’s day helps economic activity through the beautiful sales, enticing purchase of expensive goods. How can Women’s Day be fully evil then? Nothing, ultimately, is fully black or white.

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About the Author: This article is contributed by Ayantika Lahiri, our intern.

Also read: TOI Just Showed Us The Nastiest Way To Celebrate Women’s Day