In 1978, women in different posts decided that it was time to be recognised for their contributions. Jamaican women united to organise several celebratory events to mark the day highlighted as International Women’s Day.

Published March 13, 1978

International Women’s Day

March 8, 1978 was celebrated as International Women’s Day.  For the first time, International Women’s Day was celebrated in Jamaica.

International Women’s Day is celebrated as a result of struggles by women in 1908.  In that year, women workers in the United States led a demonstration.  They wanted a union to be set up for those who worked in the needle trade.  They demonstrated also to force the Government to allow them to vote.  Since then, March 8 has been celebrated as Women’s Day.

The aim of having an International Women’s day is to mark the struggles by women over the years.  The theme for Women’s Day 1978 was, 'Women United for National Independence and Equality'.

Many events were held in Jamaica to celebrate International Women’s Day.  Among those were an exhibition and a mass rally.  A free performance of 'Belly Woman Bangarang' was given on International Women’s Day.  This play was put on by women in the Special Employment Programme.

People from abroad came to Jamaica to join in the celebrations for Women’s Day.  One of these visitors from Russia was Natalya Kislyak. Ms Kislyak is the deputy minister in the Soviet Ministry of Health.  Another visitor was Galine Mixilovna Frolova.  Ms Mixilovna Frolova is the vice-chairperson for the Soviet National Women’s Committee.

Also here was Comrade Gail Texiera.  Ms Texiera is the international secretary of Guyana’s Women’s Progressive Organisation.

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