NEW YORK: A coalition of organizations -- including The Hunger Project, St. Bartholomew's Church, the UN Division for the Advancement of Women, UNIFEM and the Women's Media Center -- celebrated International Women's Day, March 8, at one of the only public events in New York City outside the United Nations system.

The theme of this year's celebration was investing in women and girls, with a strong focus on financing for gender equality. Women bear almost all responsibility for meeting basic needs of the family, yet are systematically denied the resources, information and freedom of action they need to fulfill this responsibility. Women work two-thirds of the world's working hours, yet they earn one-tenth of the world's income and own less than 1% of the world's property.

Currently, only 0.1% of bilateral international aid is targeted specifically for the empowerment of women and girls.Yet, when women are empowered and supported, all of society benefits. Research has shown that investing in women yields faster economic growth, increased agricultural production, improved health for children, less malnutrition, and more boys and girls in school.

The March 6 event brought together the diverse community in New York City that shares a commitment to gender equality. Participants will express solidarity with women around the world and raise awareness about the importance of investing in women's programs.

In 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. Since then, International Women's Day has grown to become a global day of recognition and celebration. In 1975, the United Nations began celebrating International Women's Day.