It’s an interesting irony that there should be no Mother’s Day in Mother Russia. A place ruled by men, but propped up by women, since records began. So do all those strong, hardworking, gritty women really slog it out stoically all year round without recognition for their labours? They do not.

March 8th marks one of the most popular ‘non-traditional’ celebrations in Russia today. Actually, the festival is well known in countries from France to Japan, but the biggest celebrations undoubtedly occur in the former communist states, of which Russia is one.
Although it originated in the US, the holiday’s socialist roots meant it was a good fit for the early Soviet Government, as a festival to capture the emancipated spirit of the 20s and re-educate the consciousness of the masses. Soviet Authorities used the day to propagandise against the ‘kitchen slavery’ of the housewife, promoting communal childcare that would allow women to be economically active. The sentiment probably didn’t find itself reflected in reality, as women continued to bear the brunt of childcare, shopping(queuing) and household labour, while also working long hours, as laid down by the state. Stalin’s later cult of motherhood also did much to sever the holiday from its principled roots.

So what happens on Women’s Day in Russia today? Despite the day’s beginnings in the women’s movement, IWD in Russia is really a kind of cross between Valentine’s and Mother’s Day. Women get flowers and cards from husbands, boyfriends, and children. In some cases they get taken to dinner, or the task of cooking is handed over for the day. In some cases. For many men, the celebration does seem to consist of a token bunch of flowers and a day out drinking with friends. I did hear of one mother who spent the day cooking with her mother and daughter, ready to celebrate in style in the evening. The table was stuffed with every imaginable salad, prepared with care and skill, beautifully presented, only to be ruined when her drunken husband returned home and fell into it while wrestling with a bottle of champagne.

Whatever gender you are, if you have female Russian friends (particularly if they’re far from home), a phone call to catch up, an e-mail, dinner date or outing on this date is sure to be appreciated. Pick up the phone!