The History and Significance of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day traces its origins to the early 1900s, a time when women were demanding equal pay, voting rights, and fair working conditions. What began as a labor movement soon evolved into a worldwide movement for gender equality. In 1910, Clara Zetkin, a German socialist, proposed the idea of an international day dedicated to women’s rights, and by 1911, the first IWD was celebrated across several countries. Over the decades, the day has been marked by protests, policy changes, and social awareness campaigns aimed at ensuring equality for all women.
Today, IWD is recognized by the United Nations and celebrated in countries across the globe. It is a reminder of both victories and the ongoing fight against discrimination, violence, and inequality. But not all women experience this progress equally. For queer women, especially those forced to flee oppressive regimes, the struggle is amplified. The intersection of gender and sexual identity creates unique challenges, making their journey toward freedom even more difficult.
Defining Womanhood: Inclusion in the Fight for Equality
The definition of “woman” has long been debated, shaped by culture, history, and politics. For some, womanhood is tied strictly to biology, while for others, it is an identity that transcends rigid definitions. International Women’s Day stands for the rights of all women, including trans women, non-binary individuals, and queer women whose identities are often erased or invalidated. The fight for gender equality is incomplete without acknowledging the full spectrum of womanhood.
For queer women—especially Iranian refugees—this erasure is not just societal but legal and life-threatening. In Iran, being LGBTQ+ is not only socially condemned but criminalized. Women who defy traditional gender norms by identifying as queer face violence, imprisonment, and even execution. Many flee to Turkey, where they seek asylum in hopes of a future free from fear.
Queer Iranian Women in Turkey: Struggling for Recognition and Safety
Iranian queer women who flee to Turkey hoping for safety quickly realize that their struggles are far from over. While Turkey offers a temporary refuge, the reality is harsh. Asylum-seekers face legal limbo, economic instability, and ongoing discrimination. Many cannot legally work, forcing them into precarious situations where they are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
The experience of queer women in exile is uniquely challenging. Unlike their male counterparts, they face additional layers of oppression—misogyny, homophobia, and xenophobia. Many are forced to remain invisible, hiding both their sexual identity and refugee status to avoid further persecution. The weight of living between two worlds—one they fled and one that refuses to fully accept them—creates a deep sense of isolation.
Organizations like the International Railroad for Queer Refugees (IRQR) play a critical role in supporting these women. IRQR provides legal assistance, financial aid, and a community for those who have been displaced. Through advocacy and direct support, they ensure that queer Iranian refugees are not forgotten. Their work is essential in helping these women transition from survival to rebuilding their lives with dignity.
A Call to Action on International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate resilience, but it must also be a day of action. While women worldwide continue to break barriers, queer women refugees remain among the most vulnerable. Their fight is not just for gender equality but for the fundamental right to exist.
The world cannot claim progress while leaving behind those who are most marginalized. On this day, we must amplify the voices of queer Iranian refugees and support organizations like IRQR that are working to make a difference. Advocacy, donations, and spreading awareness are ways we can stand in solidarity.
The fight for gender equality is a fight for all women—cis, trans, queer, and those who exist beyond traditional definitions. International Women’s Day is not just about remembering history but about shaping the future. A future where no woman has to flee her home for being who she is. A future where all women, regardless of identity, can live freely, love openly, and thrive without fear.
