CalEvents:Mar/Mar 8
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for March 8
Date
Event
Significance
March 8, 1911
International Women's Day first celebrated
On this day, the first International Women's Day was observed. While initially focused on European women, it later became a global celebration of women's rights, including the struggles of African and African-American women for equality and justice.
March 8, 1965
U.S. Marines land in Vietnam, sparking anti-war protests among African-Americans
On this day, U.S. Marines landed in Vietnam, marking the escalation of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. African-Americans, including leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., would later become vocal critics of the war, linking it to the civil rights struggles at home.
March 8, 1969
First Pan-African Cultural Festival held in Algiers, Algeria
On this day, the first Pan-African Cultural Festival was held in Algiers, Algeria. The event brought together artists, musicians, and intellectuals from across Africa and the diaspora to celebrate African culture and discuss the role of the arts in liberation movements.
March 8, 1977
International Women's Day recognized by the United Nations
On this day, the United Nations officially recognized International Women's Day. This global acknowledgment was significant for African women’s rights activists who were advocating for equality, access to education, and political participation across the continent.
March 8, 1982
Death of Philip Emeagwali, Nigerian computer scientist
On this day, Philip Emeagwali, a Nigerian computer scientist known for his contributions to supercomputing, passed away. His work helped pave the way for advancements in technology that benefited African nations and the world.
March 8, 2014
Protests in Nigeria over the government's handling of Boko Haram insurgency
On this day, protests erupted in Nigeria as citizens voiced frustration with the government’s response to the Boko Haram insurgency. The group’s attacks had devastated northern Nigeria, and the protests highlighted the ongoing challenges of security and governance in the region.
March 8, 2020
Protests in Sudan over lack of women's rights in post-revolution government
On this day, women in Sudan took to the streets to demand greater representation in the government that followed the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir. These protests were part of a broader movement for gender equality in the post-revolutionary phase of Sudan’s political transformation.