International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent observed on July 25, 2026

Key facts

• The International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent is observed annually on July 25.
• The observance originated from a meeting of 300 Afro-descendant women from 32 countries in the Dominican Republic on July 25, 1992.
• The meeting led to the formation of the Afro-Latin, Afro-Caribbean and Diaspora Women’s Network.
• The United Nations (UN) General Assembly officially added the day to its list of international observances in August 2024.
• The day aims to raise visibility of women of African descent and highlight their achievements and contributions across various fields.
• Women of African descent face compounded discrimination due to both gender and race, including higher risks of abuse and obstacles in accessing housing, healthcare, education, and employment.