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Hundreds of people are expected to gather in public spaces across Lane County over the weekend for International Women’s Day.
International Women’s Day, which is observed annually on March 8, celebrates the global “social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women,” according to the event website. In addition, the day provides an opportunity for groups to fundraise and promote visibility for women-focused charities.
The day also calls for action to advance gender equality.
This year’s theme is “Give to Gain,” aiming to “help forge gender equality through abundant giving,” according to the IWD website.
The day has a long legacy, according to IWD. In 1909, the Socialist Party of America named the first National Woman’s Day (NWD) which was observed across the country on Feb. 28. Then in 1910, an international conference in Denmark confirmed the creation of an International Women’s Day. But March 8 wasn’t chosen until the eve of World War I in 1914 as the exact date of the global event. The United Nations observed IWD for the first time in 1975.
IWD is not a federal holiday in the U.S., but March 8 is observed by numerous communities, companies and educational institutions across the country as a call to action for change. The theme for 2026 “encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.” This can take many forms, from charitable giving to nonprofits that help women around the world to recognizing the women and caregivers in our lives who do invisible labor.
Here are events scheduled in Eugene and Cottage Grove this weekend.
International Women’s Day Rally in Eugene
Indivisible Eugene/Springfield is hosting a rally celebrating the 115th anniversary of International Women’s Day on March 8 at the Wayne Lyman Morse Free Speech Plaza located at 799 Oak St. in Eugene from 3 to 4 p.m.
According to Indivisble, there will be speakers, signs, information about current threats to women and the “celebration of the power, integrity, and promise that women continue to bring to the world.”
Last year’s gathering at Alton Baker Park in Eugene drew hundreds.
Cottage Grove Free U.S. Free US!
For International Women’s Day, the Women’s March is celebrating “Brave Women” through a weekend of action March 8.
Organizer Lisa B. encouraged residents to gather for a “Brave Women Weekend of Action” on March 8 at Opal Whiteley Park, 711 E. Main St., in Cottage Grove at 4 p.m., according to the Women’s March website.
Attendees were advised to bring signs and “be brave together” to show the community “we won’t be silenced.”
“This administration thinks it’s above the law. We’ve watched cruelty become policy, chaos masquerade as leadership, and power exercised without accountability. And still, women have stood up,” the event listing said.
USA Today reporter Nicole Fallert contributed to this article.
Haleigh Kochanski is a breaking news and public safety reporter for The Register-Guard. You may reach her at [email protected].
