“Actions today, justice tomorrow: protect the rights of women and girls.” Under this guiding principle, International Women’s Day is celebrated globally, including in Bangladesh, on Sunday, 8 March.
A single colour consistently dominates celebrations, social media campaigns, and awareness events—purple. People often wear purple clothing, display ribbons, or pin badges in its shade. Yet, the reason behind purple’s symbolic importance is not widely understood.
The colour’s association with women’s rights originates from the early 1900s in the United Kingdom, during the women’s suffrage movement. The Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), a leading organisation advocating for women’s voting rights, adopted three emblematic colours: purple, white, and green. Each had a distinct meaning:
| Colour | Original Meaning | Modern Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Purple | Dignity, Justice | Women’s empowerment, equality |
| White | Purity | Moral integrity, peace |
| Green | Hope | Progress, renewal |
Purple symbolised dignity and justice, white stood for purity, and green represented hope. Over time, purple became the most prominent colour associated with women’s rights, eventually evolving into the primary hue representing International Women’s Day worldwide.
The significance of purple extends beyond activism. Historically, it has denoted royalty, prestige, and honour. In many cultures, it is also linked to strength, self-respect, and creativity. Psychological studies suggest that colours can influence emotion and behaviour. Purple, in particular, is known to evoke creativity, sensitivity, and a sense of dignity, reinforcing its symbolic power.
Thus, wearing purple on International Women’s Day is more than a visual gesture—it is a statement of solidarity. It honours the struggles of women throughout history and communicates a collective hope for gender equality in the future. A purple ribbon, badge, or garment can transform a simple personal choice into a meaningful symbol of empowerment, recognition, and respect.
As the world observes this day, the colour purple serves not only as a historical reminder but also as a beacon of progress, hope, and enduring commitment to women’s rights.