Today is International Women's Day

International Women's Day is celebrated around the world. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements. Join us to make this year's March a celebration of women around the world and rededication to women's rights which are under attack globally and nationally.

This year the International Committee of the Red Cross is drawing attention to the hardship displaced women endure. The displacement of populations is one of the gravest consequences of today's armed conflicts. It affects women in a host of ways. Women displaced by armed conflict – often living alone with their children – are frequently exposed to sexual violence, discrimination and intimidation. Many face poverty and social exclusion as well. International humanitarian law therefore includes specific provisions protecting women, for example when they are pregnant or as mothers of young children.

Today's local events include a March on Church Street starting at City Hall in Burlington at 5pm to be followed by speakers and a play presented by Congo Umoja at the Unitarian Universalist Church.