This coming Monday, March 8th is International Women's Day. This holiday began as a Socialist political event but, at least in Kazakhstan, it has nearly lost the political nature and is simply an occasion for men to express love and thanks to the women in their lives. Because it is a national holiday and we have Monday off from work, the park and other institutions celebrated today.
At the park, the entire staff gathered into the conference room. Because the park is a state organization, the event began with a letter from Nur Otan, the countries largest political party (led by President Nursultan Nazarbayev). Then the champagne was poured and speeches began. Each man stood up and toasted the women. I hate speeches and try to avoid them at all cost. I don't know what to say in English...much less Russian. But I got through it ok. The women were given a set of tea cups for gifts. Gender roles are still very much followed in Kazakhstan and I have a feeling that some American women would have a problem receiving a gift (on the day that celebrates you) that reinforced that gender role. The Kazakh women I've met don't seem to mind the gender roles and actually genuinely like them. They loved their tea cups! :)
Later, we had a smaller party for the tourism/biology girls and ate cake. Everyone was shocked when I told them we do not celebrate the holiday in America.
Sorry for all the posters lately- I forgot my camera and did not take any pictures of the event. I hope everyone has a good Int. Women's Day on Monday!
