In 1999, UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) declared March 21st as World Poetry Day to “give fresh recognition and impetus to national, regional and international poetry movements.” During an interview with BBC Jo Shapcott, poet, professor, and former president of The Poetry Society (now that’s some alliteration), was asked “Why does poetry need to have a special day?”  Her witty response was, “That’s a bit like asking why we need birthdays. Of course poems are always there, every day, and readers will continue to find them and enjoy them whenever they like. But why not celebrate poetry once a year (at least) in a more public way.” To find a particular poem to celebrate use the … Continued

As with many observances around the world, International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8th is celebrated in a variety of ways.  From gift giving to rallies to public holiday observation IWD is recognized in over 40 countries.  The tradition first began in February 1909 in the United States by the Socialist Party of America as a strategy to promote equal rights, including suffrage, for women and soon spread to Germany, Austria, Denmark, Switzerland, Russia, and China by 1949.  Historically, the date of observance floated into and out of February and March varying by year and location. By 1977 the United Nations General Assembly urged member states to declare March 8th as the day for Women’s Rights and International Peace.  Present … Continued