Celebrations will be taking place throughout the world today to recognize the accomplishments of women, and Iowa State is joining in to commemorate International Women’s Day.

“International Women’s Day is an occasion for men and women around the world to observe the struggle for equality,” said Priya Kothari, International Women’s Day coordinator.

The United Nations, which established the day, has acknowledged the contribution of women to international peace and security, said Julie Snyder-Yuly, International Women’s Day Committee member.

International Women’s Day was officially recognized in the United States in 1911 after years of women protesting and struggling for equality, she said.

Pressure from the Socialist Party and reaction to the New York City Triangle Fire, which killed 140 women who were unable to escape from the building in which they worked, inspired Americans to observe the day, Snyder-Yuly said.

“International Women’s Day is being celebrated throughout the world,” she said. “For instance, in Ireland they are initiating a global women’s strike. They are asking all women to protest the way they are being treated. They want more emphasis placed on the family and want more of a focus on being a woman.”

The Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics is holding its own celebration, Kothari said.

“We will be hosting a late international meal and presenting some interactive demonstrations,” she said. “Some of the international organizations on campus will also be setting up displays, and there will be a cultural performance.”

The committee is hoping for a successful event with a lot of student participation, Kothari said.

“We’re hoping it will be a fun and informational event for men and women to come together and honor women,” she said.

The Catt Hall International Women’s Day celebration will be from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Campanile Room of the Memorial Union, and it’s free and open to the public.

A forum on International Women’s Day will also be held at noon in the Pioneer Room of the Memorial Union. International women will talk about their experiences in different countries.