03/08/2026
"As we come marching, marching, in the beauty of the day,
A million darkened kitchens, a thousand mill-lofts gray
Are touched with all the radiance that a sudden sun discloses,
For the people hear us singing, "Bread and Roses, Bread and Roses."
As we come marching, marching, we battle, too, for men--
For they are women's children and we mother them again.
Our lives shall not be sweated from birth until life closes--
Hearts starve as well as bodies: Give us Bread, but give us Roses!
As we come marching, marching, unnumbered women dead
Go crying through our singing their ancient song of Bread;
Small art and love and beauty their drudging spirits knew--
Yes, bread we fight for--but we fight for Roses, too.
As we come marching, marching, we bring the Greater Days--
The rising of the women means the rising of the race--
No more the drudge and idler--ten that toil where one reposes--
But sharing of life's glories: Bread and Roses, Bread and Roses!"
-James Oppenheim
The background of the motif "Bread and Roses" is the miracle of the roses in the legend of Elisabeth of Hungary. She is the saint mostly related to charity and care for the poor. The legend tells the story of Elisabeth smuggling bread to the poor, against her husband's will. When caught in the act, she had to uncover her basket but only roses were found in it. A very similar legend is associated with Elizabeth of Portugal, who smuggled bread under her cloak to offer the poor. While the legend has either bread or roses for the poor, the political claim demands both. The bread represents basic needs and the rose the dignity, appreciation, and human rights.
Learn about the history of International Women's Day, its campaign themes, and why all activity is valid, that's what makes IWD inclusive
