International Women's Day: Global Stories of Resilience and Advocacy
International Women's Day, observed on March 8, commemorates a Russian protest that occurred on February 23, 1917 (Julian calendar), where women demanded "bread and peace." This four-day strike contributed to the Czar's abdication and women's suffrage in Russia.
The United Nations' theme for this year's International Women's Day is "Rights. Justice. Action. For all women and girls."
The Everyday Projects, a global photography and storytelling network, has featured portraits of women contributing to improving women's lives and building a better world.
Cultural Preservation in Malaysia
Photographer Annice Lyn documented Jean, a 72-year-old Chinese opera performer in Kuala Lumpur. Lyn highlights the resilience of performers like Jean, who dedicate decades to preserving centuries-old art forms despite potential indifference or negative reactions. The photograph, taken in August 2024, aims to acknowledge her discipline and cultural legacy.
Jean, a 72-year-old Chinese opera performer, exemplifies the dedication required to preserve centuries-old art forms.
Sanitation Advocacy in South Africa
Tshepiso Mabula documented Nkgono Selina Mosima from Thaba Nchu, Free State, South Africa. Mosima, who lacked proper sanitation, advocated for the digging of a pit toilet, which she eventually afforded. This picture, taken in 2020, underscores the ongoing need for safe sanitation options for many women.
Nkgono Selina Mosima's advocacy for a pit toilet highlights the persistent need for safe sanitation options for women.
Women's American Football in Russia
Kristina Brazhnikova's project "Mighty Girls" (2018-2021) documented an American football league for women in Russia. Participants from various backgrounds joined, learning rules independently and covering their own equipment and travel costs. Brazhnikova reported that the sport fostered bravery and decisiveness among participants, leading some to make significant life changes. The league ceased operations in 2022.
The "Mighty Girls" league fostered bravery and decisiveness among participants, leading some to make significant life changes.
Searching for Missing Relatives in Mexico
James Rodríguez photographed Hilaria Arzaba Medran, 57, a member of Solecito, an organization of 250 individuals searching for missing relatives in Mexico. In February 2018, Medran searched a suspected clandestine grave site in Veracruz for her son, Oscar Contreras Arzaba, who disappeared in 2011. The collective, primarily led by women, conducts these searches despite significant risks.
Solecito, an organization primarily led by women, conducts perilous searches for missing relatives in Mexico.
Housing Rights in Brazil
Luca Meola documented Janaina Xavier, a community leader in São Paulo, Brazil, who advocates for housing rights near the Cracolândia district. Xavier, a council member for the Coordination of Policies for the Homeless Population, and other low-income families have occupied empty buildings to secure housing and access essential services. In 2025, Xavier, her family, and other residents faced eviction.
Janaina Xavier, a community leader, advocates for housing rights in São Paulo, leading low-income families in occupying empty buildings.
Community Leadership in Madagascar
Photojournalist Aina Zo Raberanto documented "Reny Mahomby" (mother leaders) in Amboasary Sud, Madagascar. These women inspire community changes related to hygiene, child education, and small businesses. Raberanto observed their welcoming dance during a training session in November 2021, noting their commitment and determination despite challenging realities such as violence or early marriage.
"Reny Mahomby" (mother leaders) in Madagascar inspire profound community changes despite challenging realities.
Sex Workers' Rights in Brazil
Luca Meola also documented the Puta Davida collective during Carnival in Rio de Janeiro in February. This feminist collective, established in the early 1990s, advocates for the recognition of sex work as legitimate labor and for the protection of sex workers' human and labor rights. In 2026, a Carnival organization dedicated its parade to sex workers, providing a platform for the collective to challenge stigma and assert their rights publicly.
The Puta Davida collective advocates for the recognition of sex work as legitimate labor and for the protection of sex workers' human and labor rights.