A flower for Eva - The International Women's Day

"A flower for Eva" it is the title of this article, and it was the slogan of the International Day of Women in Poland, in time when Communism still reigned.

I do not know, if this expression is known for French- and English-speaking people, thus, I will explain it in a few words: it is not a question of a flower for Eva, but this first name of the first woman is synonymous with all the women. This expression wants to say, that each woman deserves to receive a symbolic flower at this date: on March the 8th, every year.

Probably The International Women's Day has its roots in old Rome when at the beginning of Mars the festivals of maternity were celebrated. In Poland, this day was officially celebrated after the 2nd world war.

Throughout Communism in Poland, this day of the woman was very important and was celebrated with the most possible attention, because it went well with the propaganda of success, so much liked by the socialist power. The Polish women were thus honoured obligatorily by their partner, and received flowers and symbolic gifts (one remembers with nostalgia the famous flower of which the reception had to be signed.). The handing-over of the price for the women having done something of deserving was this day, just like meetings, dinners of honour, etc

At schools, the pupils thanked their teachers by offering flowers and gifts (for example "laurki" - the hand made cards by the youngest were very current). The men colleagues offered flowers to their women colleagues.

The most seen image on the 8th of March, whatever the weather (beautiful or rain), whatever the city: stores with flowers were only visited (or almost) by the male populations, thus Polish men were queuing up making in front of the flower shops.

(Obviously, that does not mean that Polish men offered flowers to their favourite women (as well their wives, mothers, as their daughters or sisters, colleges of work!) only on the 8th of March. Quite the contrary, because Polish men are very courteous and polite, in addition, in Poland one offers flowers or gifts very often - any reason is good to be able to offer:)).) Especially to those that they like!

Speaking about flowers: The flower symbol of this day in Poland is eyelet.

This traditional day was officially suppressed in Poland in 1993. In spite of that, many people still celebrate it, even today. Meetings and dances are organized at schools, associations, clubs, even at work. What can be interesting: in particular the younger generations are favourable and for a few years, the interest for the International Day of the Women in Poland has increased.

©www.mcm-amb.com (Agnieszka Martineau-Kosobucka)

If you are interested particularly in the Polish traditions, you may want to read also the following articles:

Polish wedding - celebration, ceremony, party and honeymoon in Poland

Christmas in Poland - the Polish tradition of Christmas Eve and Holiday