The 'May 12 Initiative' is a joyful opportunity for the mathematical community to celebrate women in mathematics. The celebration takes place every year, all around the world. The goal of the day is to inspire women everywhere to celebrate their achievements in mathematics, and to encourage an open, welcoming and inclusive work environment for everybody.

On 31st July 2018 in Rio de Janeiro, the Women’s Committee of the Iranian Mathematical Society presented to the participants of the World Meeting for Women in Mathematics, (WM)², a proposal that Maryam Mirzakhani’s birthday – May 12th – be recognized and supported to celebrate women in mathematics.