A rally-goer hold a sign outside the Lakeland Public Library on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Robert Meyerowitz, LkldNow

International Women’s Day has its origins 115 years ago, in New York City, with people who wanted to call attention to women’s labor outside the home.

Since then it has become a broader phenomenon, as a rallying point for feminists and others. It was observed around the world this year.

On Saturday in Lakeland, roughly 60 people gathered at 3 p.m. on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, with signs celebrating feminism and a few decrying the administration of President Donald Trump.

| Trinity Laurino, LkldNow

They stayed together for about 90 minutes, listening to speakers and holding signs for motorists passing on Lake Morton Drive. When drivers honked in support, cheers went up from the crowd.

International Women’s Day rally-goers display signs outside the Lakeland Public Library on Saturday, March 8, 2025. | Robert Meyerowitz, LkldNow

“We are here today to celebrate achievements, to raise awareness about discrimination and the dismantling of our rights and as the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day states, accelerate action. We have to put in the work to do all we can to forge gender parity,” said Cindy Layner, president of the Democratic Women’s Club of Lakeland.

The Democratic Women’s Club of Lakeland organized the local event. However, in her speech, Layner stressed that it is not a partisan movement and encouraged people to get involved with “like-minded” groups whether or not they are politically affiliated.

| Trinity Laurino, LkldNow

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Robert Meyerowitz has been a reporter, editor and foreign correspondent. He covered Central America and the Middle East, he was the cofounder and editor of the Anchorage Press in Alaska, and he taught journalism at the University of Alaska. He comes to Lakeland from Park City, Utah, where he edited The Park Record.

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