SPRINGFIELD – A resolution sponsored by State Senator Cristina Castro that establishes March 8, 2023 as International Women’s Day in the state of Illinois passed the Senate on Wednesday.

"This is an opportunity to join Illinois with the international community and officially recognize the progress we have made together for women’s rights,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Women have contributed so much to our state and nation including serving in our armed forces, breaking barriers in the technology and innovation sectors, and fighting for equality for all people. Let us take the time to recognize and lift up those accomplishments today.”

March 8 of each year is recognized as International Women's Day by countries around the world to celebrate the past, present and future achievements of women as well as the obstacles that women continue to face in their struggle for equal rights and gender equality.

Senate Resolution 94 joins Illinois with the international community in celebrating March 8 as International Women’s Day. The resolution reaffirms the state’s commitment to pursuing strategies that guarantee the basic human rights of women and girls, promoting meaningful and significant participation of women in all aspects of society, encouraging equitable access to health care for all women and girls and supporting policy initiatives that seek to empower all women and achieve gender parity.

“Women’s full empowerment and participation in civic life is critical to solving our state and nation’s most pressing social and economic issues,” said Castro. “I hope that Illinoisans will use this as an opportunity to learn more about the women who have led us in the fight for equality and paved the way toward a more equitable world.”

Senate Resolution 94 passed the Senate on Wednesday and March 8, 2023 will be officially recognized as International Women’s Day.