International Women's Day 2025: What does purple, green, and white represent?

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global celebration of women's achievements in social, economic, cultural, and political fields. It is also a day to call for gender equality and women¡¯s rights. Across the world, people come together to recognise the contributions of women and advocate for a more inclusive society.

Every year, International Women's Day is observed on March 8. In 2025, it will fall on a Saturday.

International Women's Day 2025 Theme

Each year, International Women¡¯s Day has a unique theme that highlights important aspects of gender equality. According to the United Nations (UN), the theme for International Women's Day 2025 is ¡°For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.¡± This theme emphasises the need to provide equal opportunities, rights, and empowerment to all women and girls, ensuring a fair and just future for everyone.

Additionally, the official International Women's Day website has introduced the theme ¡°Accelerate Action.¡± This theme urges individuals, organisations, and governments to take concrete steps toward advancing women¡¯s rights and breaking barriers that hinder progress.

The Symbolic Colours of International Women¡¯s Day

One of the most recognisable aspects of International Women's Day is its colours¡ªpurple, green, and white. These colours hold deep historical and symbolic meanings and have been associated with the women's rights movement since the early 20th century.

Purple ¨C The Colour of Justice and Dignity

Purple is the most prominent colour associated with International Women¡¯s Day. It represents justice, dignity, and loyalty to the cause of gender equality. The colour also signifies visionary thinking and is often linked to women¡¯s empowerment.

Historically, in the United Kingdom, purple was used by the Women¡¯s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1908 to represent their fight for women's rights. In the United States and other parts of the world, it is widely recognised as a symbol of women¡¯s empowerment and gender equality.

Additionally, purple is a blend of blue and red, two colours that psychologically create a balance of calmness and inspiration. This dual effect makes it a strong representation of resilience and progress in the fight for equal rights.

Green ¨C The Colour of Hope and Growth

Green symbolises hope, new beginnings, and growth. It represents the belief in a brighter and more equal future for women across the globe. The connection between green and nature also reflects harmony and renewal, symbolising ongoing efforts to achieve gender equality.

Psychologically, green is a colour that soothes and calms the mind, bringing a sense of balance and optimism. Since the early suffragette movement, green has been used to show determination and strength in the fight for women¡¯s rights.

White ¨C The Colour of Equality and Freedom

White has long been associated with purity, truth, and equality. In the early women's rights movements, suffragists wore white to counter negative stereotypes and demand respect for their cause.

While the meaning of purity has evolved over time, white continues to stand for freedom and fairness. It represents a world where women are treated equally and have the same opportunities as men. Throughout history, women¡¯s rights activists have worn white as a powerful statement, such as in 1978, when 200,000 women marched in Washington D.C. in support of the Equal Rights Amendment, dressed in white with purple and green sashes.

White is also known for its calming and uplifting effects. It is often worn during important movements and rituals, symbolising the hope for a better and fairer society.

Why These Colours Matter in 2025

As we celebrate International Women's Day 2025, the colours purple, green, and white continue to serve as powerful symbols of the ongoing fight for gender equality. They remind us of the struggles faced by women in the past and inspire future generations to keep pushing for progress.

By wearing these colours, supporting the cause, and raising awareness, people worldwide can contribute to making International Women¡¯s Day 2025 a moment of real change. Whether through workplace initiatives, educational discussions, or social media campaigns, every action counts towards creating a more equal and just world for all women and girls.

International Women¡¯s Day is not just a celebration¡ªit is a reminder of the work that still needs to be done. The colours purple, green, and white represent the values and vision of a world where women have equal rights and opportunities. By understanding and embracing these colours, we can honour the past, take action in the present, and create a brighter future for all.

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