In Belgium, November 11 is traditionally linked to the end of the First World War. But did you know that, alongside Armistice Day, this date also carries an important feminist legacy?
A Brief History
On November 11, 1972, Brussels hosted the very first National Women’s Day. The event was initiated by the Vrouwen Overleg Komitee (VOK), founded earlier that year after a weekend of reflection on women’s emancipation that brought together women from a wide range of civil society organizations.
This first edition—called “V-Day,” with the V standing for vrouw (woman), vrijheid (freedom), verzet (resistance), and viktorie (victory)—was an immediate success. Thousands of women gathered around issues such as equal pay, abortion rights, and housing. International feminist icons including Simone de Beauvoir and Germaine Greer also travelled to Brussels to attend.
The date was chosen deliberately: many women were off work on November 11, and it was the only day De Beauvoir was available. As a result, Armistice Day was given a new, feminist dimension.
From National Women’s Day to the Day of Feminism
For over fifty years, November 11 was known as National Women’s Day. In 2023, Furia—the successor of the original VOK—introduced a new name: the Day of Feminism. While the early editions focused mainly on women’s rights, the event now addresses gender equality in a broader and more inclusive way.
The new name reflects an intersectional vision: not only women, but all people affected by gender inequality are welcomed and involved. The Belgian Day of Feminism aligns with the International Women’s Day on March 8, a global symbol of feminist struggle and solidarity.
November 11, 2025: Confronting Socio-Economic Violence
This year, the Day of Feminism focuses on socio-economic violence—a form of inequality that disproportionately affects women worldwide. Policy decisions around labour, care, and pensions often have uneven consequences. Unpaid care work remains invisible, while paid care work continues to be undervalued and underpaid.
For this reason, Furia invites everyone to Lucy’s Antwerp on November 11 to reflect, learn, and take action together. Through panel discussions, workshops, and artistic performances, participants will explore how economic justice and gender equality can be meaningfully connected.
The message is clear: feminism is not a holiday—it is an ongoing movement. And that movement grows stronger with every voice that speaks out.
Register here: Laat hier weten dat je komt naar de Dag van het feminisme op 11 nov 2025!
Sources:
Louise VAN DER HAUWAERT
Communications
