Mennonite Women USA calls for prayer for women facing violence

Communications Office

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March 8 is International Women's Day, a day designated for global celebration of the economic, political, and social achievements of women in the past, present, and future. IWD is a national holiday in many countries throughout the world, and in some countries, March is designated as Women's Month.

This year, Mennonite women are being asked by Mennonite Women USA to remember in prayer women in the United States and around the world who live in places of violence.

Rhoda Keener, executive director of Mennonite Women USA says, "International Women's Day is a time to remember women who live in fear or danger. We encourage all Mennonite women to let our thoughts and our meditations be a prayer for our sisters, many of whom must walk carefully every day along paths of violence."

Women's organizations and governments around the world traditionally observe IWD annually on March 8 by holding large-scale events that honor women's advancement while diligently reminding people of the continued vigilance and action required to ensure that women's equality is gained and maintained in all aspects of life. Thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities, networking events, local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more connect women from all around the world.

The first IWD was in 1911, making next year the centennial global celebration of the day.  More than one million women and men attended IWD rallies campaigning for women's rights to work, vote, be trained, hold public office and end discrimination. In 1914 women across Europe held rallies to campaign against the war and to express women's solidarity.